Ngannou Returns to MMA with PFL Debut Against Ferreira
Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is set to make his Professional Fighters League (PFL) debut in October, marking his return to mixed martial arts (MMA) after a stint in boxing. Ngannou will face 2023 PFL heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira on a PFL pay-per-view super fight card on October 19.
Ngannou, 37, has not fought in an MMA bout since his successful title defense against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 in January 2022. He left the UFC due to a contentious contract dispute, which resulted in UFC President Dana White stripping him of his title in January 2023.
The Cameroonian fighter has been busy in the boxing ring, taking Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua to the distance in his two high-profile bouts. Ngannou’s performances have sparked interest in him as a legitimate contender in the heavyweight division, which has been plagued by promotional clashes and ego-driven disputes.
Ngannou has been studying Ferreira, praising the Brazilian’s unique athleticism and speed. "Renan is a great fighter, I have been watching him for years," Ngannou said. "I have been studying him for years, in fact I’ve been telling people to watch this guy. He’s quite unique, he’s athletic, fast and he showed that in his last fight."
Ferreira, who has fought eight times since Ngannou’s last MMA bout, is confident in his abilities. "This is the fight of my life," he said. "I am preparing like never before to bring Ngannou a whole lot of problems."
The PFL has a unique MMA competition format, featuring a regular season, postseason, and championship event. Ngannou will compete only on the promotion’s super fight cards, which will give fans a chance to see him face top-level opponents.
The October card will also feature a bout between Cris "Cyborg" Justino and Larissa Pacheco. Additional sources: AP
