The African superstar of UFC Francis Ngannou has cracked a deal with PFL amid the ongoing tussle with UFC. Ngannou is set to fight exclusively for PFL in their pay-per-view super fight division. Notably, the world heavyweight champion of UFC will also serve as Chairman and equity owner in PFL Africa.
Ngannou was still the UFC heavyweight champion when contract negotiations broke down when the African fighter’s demands for health coverage and personal endorsements were denied. Notably, in January this year, UFC president Dana White stripped Ngannou of the title. “I believe in the PFL’s ‘fighter first’ culture and global vision including developing the sport in Africa”, said the 36-year-old fighter after signing the deal.
“With that, I am also proud to announce that I will serve as Chairman of PFL Africa which will be the leading MMA organization on the continent providing great African fighters the opportunity to compete on a global platform”, he further added after revealing the deal. Notably, Ngannou will be the first active board member of PFL to represent fighters’ interest in the board.
When will Francis Ngannou make his debut for PFL?
According to the CEO of PFL Peter Murray Ngannou is set to make his first appearance in early 2024. He will also box as PFL doesn’t want to interfere in the interests of fighters. Speaking with the Associate Press Murray also revealed that PFL has come up with a transformational model of fighting.
He said, “This is a new model and it’s a transformational deal,” Murray said. “This is not just an athlete signing. This is a strategic partnership. Francis has all the capabilities not only as an elite MMA fighter but as a businessperson and we’re excited to be in business with him. This is the No 1 signing that this company in MMA has ever made. It’s perfectly timed. We’re now focused on our next phase of growth and launching our pay-per-view business and expanding internationally with regional leagues.”
