Francis Ngannou Departs PFL Following Solitary Bout
The Professional Fighters League has confirmed the release of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, marking an abrupt end to his tenure after merely one fight under the promotion. Ngannou, who joined PFL in January 2023, competed in a single bout for the organisation, securing victory against Renan Ferreira in October 2024 to claim the inaugural PFL Super Fights heavyweight title.
PFL Statement Confirms Mutual Parting
In an official statement, PFL announced the decision to part ways with Ngannou, expressing respect for the athlete while focusing on future recruitment. "The Professional Fighters League has made the decision to part ways with Francis Ngannou," the statement read. "We have great respect for Francis as both an athlete and a person, and we wish him success in the next chapter of his combat sports career. The PFL remains focused on recruiting and signing the best athletes in the sport while continuing to deliver world-class competition for fans around the globe."
Contractual Warnings and Boxing Ventures
Ngannou had previously signalled concerns about his contract in December, noting that PFL needed to provide him with a fight. During his time with the promotion, he also ventured into boxing, facing high-profile opponents like Tyson Fury in October 2023 and Anthony Joshua six months later, though he lost both matches. His professional MMA record stands at 18-3, with 12 wins by knockout, including his notable UFC victory over Stipe Miocic in 2021.
Future Prospects and Rumoured Matchups
Speculation had surrounded Ngannou's next moves, with talks of potential boxing bouts against Deontay Wilder or a crossover match with Jake Paul, though the latter was dismissed by Ngannou himself. His departure from PFL now opens new avenues in combat sports, as fans and analysts await his next career step. The swift exit underscores the dynamic nature of fighter promotions and athlete contracts in modern mixed martial arts.
