The MMA world is abuzz after confirmation of Francis Ngannou’s future plans.
Francis Ngannou, a former UFC heavyweight champion, departed the sport’s premier promotion earlier this year following a lengthy contractual dispute.
He cited the inability to venture to boxing, a lack of wide-scale healthcare, and the promotion’s refusal to accommodate a fighter advocate in board meetings as some of the hurdles that prevented a new deal.
It seems that “The Predator” has found a home willing to provide his wishes, with the Cameroon native officially signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
The news was announced on Tuesday, alongside some details regarding Ngannou’s unique multi-fight agreement with the rising MMA promotion.
“The Predator” is expected to debut in mid-2024, with a boxing debut slated for later this year. In addition to the freedom to lace the gloves, Francis Ngannou appears set to wield influence behind the scenes as the chairman of PFL Africa and courtesy of a position on the company’s advisory board “to represent fighter interests.”
‘He Beat The House’ – MMA Twitter Reacts To Francis Ngannou’s PFL Deal
Unsurprisingly, the MMA community was quick to express their thoughts on social media, with a host of fans providing mixed reactions across Twitter.
Many were supportive of Francis Ngannou, with some pointing out that he’s secured a number of terms that the UFC appeared unwilling to budge on during negotiations.
Others focused on what the deal could mean for the PFL’s standing in MMA. Ngannou’s signing comes months on from the arrival of YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, who is expected to make his debut in the cage under the PFL banner next year.
But not every reaction was positive.
As was the case throughout his stint in free agency, many dismissed Francis Ngannou’s decision to leave the UFC and subsequent PFL signing as a successful outcome for the heavyweight knockout artist.
Many also looked ahead to Ngannou’s planned debut in the SmartCage, and the heavyweight who could be standing opposite him.
The most common name appeared to be former UFC titleholder Fabricio Werdum, who recently called “The Predator” out for a collision in the PFL.