Francis Ngannou Returns to MMA for Renan Ferreira Fight Following Unsuccessful Boxing Career
2 minutes The PFL announced Ngannou’s MMA comeback following Ferreira’s impressive first-round TKO win over Ryan Bader at a special event that pitted PFL fighters against Bellator competitors.
Francis Ngannou is set to make a return to MMA, stepping back from boxing to face PFL champion Renan Ferreira. This comes after Ngannou experienced a setback in his boxing career, including a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua. The former UFC heavyweight champion is expected to fight Ferreira sometime between September and October.
The PFL announced Ngannou’s MMA comeback following Ferreira’s impressive first-round TKO win over Ryan Bader at a special event that pitted PFL fighters against Bellator competitors. Ferreira's quick 21-second victory not only earned him the "PFL Champion vs. Bellator Champion" Super Belt but also set the stage for a showdown with Ngannou. During the event, Ferreira excitedly challenged Ngannou, who was in the audience but left before a potential in-cage confrontation could occur. This early departure denied fans and promoters a chance to capitalise on the hype of his presence. After the match, Ferreira expressed disappointment about the missed chance to promote their upcoming bout.
Ferreira also commented on the financial aspects of fighting Ngannou, referencing the guaranteed $2 million payout for Ngannou’s opponents stipulated by his PFL contract—a result of Ngannou’s past disputes over pay with the UFC.
"I feel like money in a situation like this is a consequence of your work. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the body of work I put together," Ferreira stated.
He added:
"But it does have to be said the amount of respect I have for Francis for lobbying for his opponent. To make sure that his opponent is taken care of. It's immense. It just shows how great of a champion he is and the character and the man behind the athlete. It's something I commend and applaud him for."
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From MMA to Boxing
While the world of MMA has woken up to this great news, the world of boxing is just as interesting following yesterday's 5x5 press conference. The unusual event saw Deontay Wilder announced as the latest fighter to join Matchroom for the Saudi blockbuster in June.
Ngannou had previously ventured into boxing, making a notable debut against lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in 2023. Despite losing by split decision in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Ngannou managed to knock Fury down in the third round with a powerful overhand left. However, his subsequent boxing match against Anthony Joshua ended swiftly with Ngannou being knocked out in the second round, tempering expectations for his boxing career.