Cameroon: 5 sports stars to watch in 2025

Francis Ngannou: the titan between two worlds

Francis Ngannou, the former UFC champion, continues to impress with his versatility and determination. After making history in MMA, he moved successfully into boxing, facing Tyson Fury in October 2023. Although he did not beat the WBC heavyweight champion, Ngannou proved he could compete in a sport where he was still a novice. The experience has strengthened his status as an elite fighter and opened the door to new challenges.

In 2025, Ngannou will juggle MMA and boxing, with plans to shine in both disciplines. He is preparing to return to MMA with the PFL organisation while insisting he is not done with boxing. "I never left MMA," he told AFP. At the same time, he says he has no intention of giving up boxing. "I'm not done with boxing, I intend to go back, if possible in 2025," the Cameroonian said. With his strength and work ethic, Francis Ngannou remains a source of inspiration and one of Cameroon's most influential sportspeople.

Emmanuel Eseme: the sprint lightning bolt

Emmanuel Eseme, a specialist over 100 m and 200 m, is one of the most promising Cameroonian athletes of his generation. After breaking the national 100 m record in 2023 (9 s 96), he kept up that momentum in 2024 at the Paris Olympic Games. Although he did not reach the podium, he came through the qualifying rounds, proving he can compete with the best sprinters in the world.

In 2025, Eseme is aiming for even more eye-catching performances, notably at the World Athletics Championships. His achievements, such as winning the 100 m at the African Games in Accra in 2024, make him an essential ambassador for Cameroonian sport. With his speed, he embodies the promise of a bright future for the country's athletics.

Yves Missi: the NBA's rising star

Young Cameroonian centre Yves Missi has made a notable NBA debut with the New Orleans Pelicans. Drafted in 2024, he quickly established himself as a key player for his team. In December 2024, he was named Western Conference Rookie of the Month, an honour reserved for the brightest talents. Averaging 11.2 points, 10 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game, he is proving a formidable defender and an essential asset for the Pelicans.

In 2025, Missi intends to build on that start and dreams of making the All-Rookie Team. His hard work and rapid progress point to his potential to become one of the best centres in the league. With his imposing presence and energy, Yves Missi represents a new era for Cameroonian basketball.

Bryan Mbeumo: Brentford's jewel

Bryan Mbeumo, Brentford's star forward, is establishing himself as one of the most influential players in his side in the Premier League. With 13 goals and 3 assists in the league this season, he has been decisive in several matches, most recently scoring twice and providing an assist against Southampton on Saturday. His consistency and attacking flair make him a reliable performer.

With clear goals for 2025, Mbeumo aims to raise his level even further and become one of the most respected forwards in the Premier League. With the national team, he could also play a key role at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Bryan Mbeumo is without question a fine ambassador for Cameroonian football.

Clovis Kamzong: the king of Cameroonian cycling

Clovis Kamzong, an emblematic figure of Cameroonian cycling, consolidated his status by winning the Tour cycliste international du Cameroun last year. Although he narrowly missed out on victory in the 2024 Grand Prix Chantal Biya against Belgium's Van Dyck Wesley, Kamzong remains a dominant force in his sport.

In 2025, he is aiming to rule national cycling once again and to shine on the international stage. With his determination and experience, Kamzong represents the hope and pride of a discipline that is often overlooked. He embodies the courage and perseverance of Cameroonian sportspeople.

Arthur Wandji