Ngannou Released by PFL
Francis Ngannou has been released by the Professional Fighters League and is now a free agent after just one fight with the organization. The former UFC heavyweight champion's short tenure with PFL ends what was described as a high-profile experiment that brought him to their roster last year. PFL reportedly failed to build a viable heavyweight roster for Ngannou to fight, despite offering $1 million guaranteed to potential opponents.
While Francis Ngannou's tenure with the Professional Fighters League lasted just one fight, his journey to and from the organization is a reflection of his larger battle for fighter autonomy. He departed the UFC as the reigning heavyweight champion in January 2023 after contract negotiations stalled. Ngannou had advocated for health insurance for all UFC fighters, the right to have his own sponsors, and more flexibility in his contract, requests the promotion denied. His subsequent deal with the PFL, announced in May 2023, was unprecedented in mixed martial arts. It included not only a multi-fight contract for their "super fight" division but also an equity stake in the company, the role of chairman for the forthcoming PFL Africa league, and the freedom to pursue boxing matches independently. As part of the agreement, Ngannou also secured a guaranteed minimum purse of $2 million for his opponents. During his time with the PFL, Ngannou's primary focus was on high-profile boxing matches. He fought two major bouts in Saudi Arabia, first losing a controversial split decision to Tyson Fury in October 2023, a fight in which he knocked down the heavyweight champion. He then faced Anthony Joshua in March 2024, losing by knockout. These boxing ventures were reportedly very lucrative for Ngannou. Ngannou's sole MMA fight for the PFL took place on October 19, 2024, where he knocked out Renan Ferreira in the first round to win the PFL Super Fights Heavyweight Championship. His PFL contract and his status as a free agent were officially announced on March 6, 2026. Tensions in the partnership between Ngannou and the PFL appeared to surface publicly. PFL co-owner Donn Davis expressed disappointment when Ngannou did not attend the debut PFL Africa event in July 2025. Ngannou later stated his absence was due to his displeasure with the event, which he felt was treated like an "undercard." Following his release, the PFL issued a statement wishing him success and emphasizing their focus on recruiting top athletes. Ngannou has confirmed his intention to continue competing in MMA, though his next move remains unannounced. His status as a high-profile free agent has led to speculation about a potential return to the UFC or other opportunities in the combat sports world.
