Former UFC champion Francis Ngannou announces deal with PFL

Francis Ngannou joins DC & RC to discuss signing with PFL [FULL SHOW] | ESPN MMA

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) announced Tuesday that former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou had inked a deal with the organization.

Speaking to The New York Times, Ngannou revealed that his recent contract with the PFL fulfilled two demands he had sought throughout the extended contract dispute with UFC. These terms included a substantial increase in salary and the freedom to explore boxing.

Ngannou is anticipated to debut in the Super Fight division of the PFL around mid-2024. This division ensures that athletes receive at least 50 percent of pay-per-view earnings. He becomes the third fighter to be signed in this division, joining YouTube sensation-turned-boxer Jake Paul and mixed martial artist Kayla Harrison.

OFFICIAL! Francis Ngannou is PFL Bound!

The 36-year-old also revealed that he would be chairman of PFL Africa, allowing him to play a significant role in the development of combat sports talent from Africa. The establishment of PFL Africa follows the launch of PFL Europe earlier this year.

Since its inception in 2018, the PFL has experienced significant growth, attributed to its partnership with ESPN for broadcasting and its unique season-based structure. The PFL’s format involves a point system, with divisional champions crowned annually, each earning a $1 million prize.

Francis Ngannou partners with PFL in biggest deal in MMA history, will launch PFL Africa

Ngannou’s records

Ngannou departed from the UFC as the reigning heavyweight champion. In January, his title was relinquished due to the expiration of his contract in December, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Ngannou claimed his first UFC title in 2021 after delivering a knockout blow to two-time UFC Heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic in a rematch. Ngannou first challenged Miocic for the title in 2018, which resulted in a defeat.

Ngannou has showcased his skill throughout his career with remarkable knockouts against numerous former champions, including Andrei Arlovski, Alistair Overeem, Cain Velasquez and Junior dos Santos.