Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, signed a unique multi-fight contract with the Professional Fighters League (PFL). The deal allows Ngannou to compete in both boxing and MMA bouts…
Francis Ngannou
Ngannou and the PFL announced their partnership, with Ngannou receiving equity and leadership roles in the company and the freedom to pursue boxing matches. He is expected to participate in a boxing match this year and an MMA bout in the PFL in mid-2024. The financial details of the deal were not disclosed, but Ngannou expressed satisfaction, stating that it was a more lucrative offer than any others he had received.
As part of the agreement, Ngannou will take on the role of chairman of PFL Africa, overseeing events in the region, and will join the company’s advisory board to represent the interests of fighters. He will join other notable athletes such as Jake Paul and Kayla Harrison in the PFL’s Super Fight division, which provides better terms and revenue shares.
Francis Ngannou Confirms Signing for PFL Via His Official Twitter Account
Ngannou’s transition to the PFL signifies his departure from the UFC, where he held the heavyweight title in 2021. Throughout his free-agency period, Ngannou expressed concerns about fighter pay and his interest in participating in boxing matches. Despite engaging in negotiations with the UFC for a new contract and the possibility of a fight against Jon Jones, they were unable to come to an agreement, resulting in Ngannou’s release from the promotion. The PFL, recognized as one of the UFC’s major competitors, presented Ngannou with an opportunity to pursue his aspirations and be valued beyond his role as a fighter.
The UFC, owned by Endeavor and valued at $12.1 billion, has faced criticism regarding fighter pay and contractual restrictions. Fighters receive less than 20% of the total revenue generated, whereas other prominent sports leagues such as the NFL allocate approximately 50% to their players. Although the PFL does not match the UFC’s level of prominence, it has established a devoted fan base through its ESPN television deal and distinctive seasonal format.
Ngannou’s signing with the PFL signifies a significant shift in the combat sports landscape, as notable fighters like him and Jake Paul join organizations outside the UFC. This move brings attention to ongoing discussions surrounding fighter pay and power dynamics within the MMA industry. While combat sports athletes currently lack unionization, legal challenges against the UFC’s business practices continue to highlight the need for improved conditions and a fairer distribution of revenue.
The partnership between Ngannou and the PFL opens up new possibilities for the fighter and generates excitement among boxing and MMA fans. Anticipation builds as fans eagerly await Ngannou’s upcoming fights and the impact he will have in both sports. Further details are eagerly anticipated as they unfold.
