Francis Ngannou Released by PFL
The Professional Fighters League has released former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, making him the most coveted free agent in combat sports. The PFL is shifting focus to recruiting new talent for 2026, while speculation swirls around whether Ngannou returns to UFC, joins another MMA promotion, or pursues boxing.
Francis Ngannou's tenure with the PFL lasted just one fight, a first-round knockout victory over Renan Ferreira in October 2024 to win the PFL Super Fights Heavyweight Championship. His mixed martial arts record currently stands at 18 wins and 3 losses. The deal, announced in May 2023, was considered groundbreaking. The Cameroonian fighter's contract was unique in MMA, granting him equity in the PFL, the role of chairman for PFL Africa, and a spot on the promotion's global athlete advisory board. Ngannou also negotiated a guaranteed purse of at least $2 million for his opponents. He left the UFC as the reigning heavyweight champion in January 2023 over disputes regarding pay and the freedom to pursue boxing. While under the PFL banner, Ngannou focused heavily on boxing, securing two high-profile and lucrative bouts in Saudi Arabia. He fought Tyson Fury in October 2023, scoring a knockdown but ultimately losing a controversial split decision. In March 2024, he was knocked out by Anthony Joshua. Despite the landmark signing, signs of friction appeared. PFL co-owner Donn Davis expressed disappointment when Ngannou, the chairman of PFL Africa, did not attend the organization's debut event on the continent in July 2025. Ngannou later stated he was displeased with the event, calling it an "undercard."
