FRANCIS NGANNOU paid tribute to "My little boy, my mate, my partner" after his 15-month-old son Kobe passed away today.

The UFC star turned boxer, who recently fought Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, paid a heartbreaking tribute after the tragic loss.

Taking to social media, he wrote: "Too soon to leave but yet he's gone.

"My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he's laying without life.

"I shouted his name over and over but he's not responding.

"How do you deal with such a thing? How can you live with it?

"Please help me if you have any idea because I really don't know what to do and how to deal with this."

His tribute came after he earlier wrote on X: "What's the purpose of life if what we're fighting tooth and nail to get away from is what finally hit us the hardest!?

"Why is life so unfair and merciless? Why does life always take what we don't have? I'm f***ing tired."

Very little is known about Ngannou's personal life and it is not known who Kobe's mother is.

Conor McGregor was first to pay tribute to Ngannou's son, writing: "No parent should ever have to go through this 💔 My deepest sympathies."

He was joined by Ngannou's former opponent Joshua, who wrote: "May the memories you shared bring you comfort."

They were joined by many fans who sent their condolences after the shock news.

One fan wrote: "Stay strong, Francis. Surround yourself with loved ones as much as you possibly can. The world is here for you."

Another commented: "My Condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏🕊️"

While a third posted: "Rest in peace 🙏Prayers and thoughts are with you from all your supporters bro… God bless ❤️"

Ngannou held the title of UFC Heavyweight champion between 2020 and 2023.

He then left the organisation before pursuing a career in boxing.

He went on to lose that match by decision.

In his second professional boxing match, he was beaten by Anthony Joshua.