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Former UFC Champion Francis Ngannou Signs With Major MMA Promotion

Francis Ngannou has signed on with a major MMA company.

Fernando Quiles Jr.

(via Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou has a new home.

Earlier this year, Ngannou and the UFC parted ways after the two sides failed to come to terms on a new deal. For months, fight fans were wondering what Ngannou's next move would be. Well, wonder no more.

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) revealed to The New York Times that Ngannou has signed an exclusive MMA contract with the promotion. Terms of the deal have not been revealed, although Ngannou told the news publication that the deal is worth more than any other promotion offered. Ngannou will also receive equity and leadership roles as part of the deal.

READ MORE: Francis Ngannou Sends Defiant Message to Critics of His Ongoing Free Agency

Ngannou will be fighting in the PFL's "PPV Super Fight Division." Social media star Jake Paul and Kayla Harrison are also a part of the "Super Fight" tier within PFL.

It was noted in The New York Times report that Ngannou is expected to have a boxing match later this year. The plan is for "The Predator" to make his PFL debut in mid-2024.

PFL CEO Peter Murray gushed over the deal with Ngannou, saying that this is more than just an athlete contract. He was adamant that Ngannou is in business with PFL. Murray revealed that PFL is hoping to hold events in Africa in 2025, and Ngannou will be playing a big role in the promotion's expansion in the continent. In fact, he will be the Chairman of PFL Africa.

Ngannou had one last word for the naysayers who questioned his free agency process before the PFL deal was announced. "The Predator" said he expected the criticism because people don't understand him or what he was doing. The former UFC Heavyweight Champion believes his patience has paid off.

READ MORE: Mike Perry Slams Donald Cerrone Following BKFC 41: "He's a Sneaky Little Snake"

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Fernando Quiles Jr.
FERNANDO QUILES JR.

Fernando has over a decade of combat sports news writing experience. He currently covers MMA, boxing, and pro wrestling. Fernando joined MMA Knockout as the Lead Writer/Editor when it was founded in 2023.

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