Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, is making huge moves outside one of the leading MMA organizations, UFC. For several years, ‘The Predator’ has had contractual disagreements with the company. Ngannou, ultimately, opted to leave the promotion early this year. Many prominent MMA figures opposed his choice to depart and warned him of a downfall.
However, it looks like the decision has paid off for the former heavyweight champion, as he inked a lucrative agreement with another big MMA promoter a few months ago.
And he recently announced his boxing debut against Tyson Fury, which will undoubtedly net him another large sum of money. Let’s take a short look at Ngannou’s post-UFC fallout and climb.
Francis Ngannou after UFC
Last year, Francis Ngannou faced Ciryl Gane in the UFC, where the latter was a big favorite. However, ‘The Predator’ successfully defended his championship by defeating Gane. As previously stated, Ngannou was already in the crosshairs of the UFC.
But once his contract expired, relations between him and management deteriorated. It was also reported that Ngannou was promised more than $8 million, making him the highest-paid heavyweight boxer in history.
Francis Ngannou says he was offered around $8 million for the Jon Jones fight on a multi-fight deal. Ngannou asked for three fights with no extension (via @arielhelwani‘s MMA Hour). He was hoping for two fights against Jones and a Stipe Miocic trilogy.
— Shakiel Mahjouri (@Shak_Fu) January 17, 2023
However, the Cameroonian boxer desired more than just money. Ngannou demanded the right to compete in boxing matches, as well as health insurance and other benefits.
And because the contract didn’t provide him the freedom to do what he wanted, he decided to leave the company regardless of how much money they offered.
Following his departure, Ngannou began looking into other possibilities, which led to him signing a lucrative contract with the PFL (Professional Fighters League). His agreement with PFL was unique as he will be granted administrative responsibilities and his opponent will be guaranteed at least $2 million, to mention a few perks. Having said that, it’s easy to see why he chose to join the PFL.
Ngannou’s boxing debut
The heavyweight star will soon explore boxing waters after making his way into a new MMA promotion. Ngannou is scheduled to make his boxing debut against Tyson Fury, according to sources.
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Fury is a well-known heavyweight with an unblemished record. Although it will be difficult for Ngannou to face him, he is the ideal opponent for the former UFC champion. This battle is a thrill for the audience.
The highly anticipated heavyweight boxing bout will be held on October 28th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This bout will take place under regular boxing rules. However, no championship is yet on the line.
