Chael Sonnen Claims Having ‘Same’ Situation With Dana White as Francis Ngannou

UFC veteran Chael Sonnen defends Francis Ngannou's recent allegations of physically assaulting UFC CEO Dana White.

Chael Sonnen Claims Having ‘Same’ Situation With Dana White as Francis Ngannou

Chael Sonnen weighs on in Dana White's recent backlash of Francis Ngannou (via MMA Fighting, BBC)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

Francis Ngannou’s standing in combat sports has shifted in recent years, moving from being regarded as one of the most dominant heavyweights to facing increased scrutiny. New developments have resurfaced regarding his fractured relationship with UFC CEO Dana White. The situation has drawn renewed attention after UFC veteran Chael Sonnen weighed in on the lingering tension between the two sides.

White recently spoke at length about his issues with Ngannou, portraying him as difficult to work with and questioning his behavior during negotiations. He also alleged that Ngannou had previously misrepresented his English proficiency. White further claimed that an incident in 2021 involved Ngannou physically confronting both himself and UFC executive Hunter Campbell over a payment bonus dispute.

Ngannou later addressed the UFC CEO’s comments without confirming or denying that the alleged altercation occurred. He maintained that no evidence existed to support the claims and suggested the accusations were unproven. This response set the stage for Sonnen’s public assessment of the situation and how the incident has been perceived.

Francis didn’t really do anything. I mean, he turned around and he raised his voice, but that was the same thing I was doing. I’m just not as frightening-looking as Francis. I don’t think we can hold against Francis that he happens to be a really frightening-looking person. I think that Francis’s actions, for the most part, are probably in line with what a lot of other people would do. But maybe he gets a little bit harsher criticism because he would go into the category of terrifying.

Chael Sonnen via The Ariel Helwani Show

The American Gangster’s remarks stem from his broader criticism of Ngannou’s UFC exit and the breakdown of his relationship with White. He has previously highlighted the Cameroonian’s decision to leave the promotion in pursuit of larger paydays in boxing. At the same time, Sonnen has also defended Ngannou in past discussions, describing him as calm and composed despite his intimidating presence.

Tensions between Ngannou and White were reignited after the ‘Predator’ publicly supported the idea of a UFC event at the White House while his PFL contract nears its conclusion. This stance led to skepticism surrounding his long-term alignment outside the UFC. As a result, White’s earlier comments about Ngannou’s personality resurfaced and gained renewed relevance.

Dana White has since put an apparent end to any speculation by confirming he has no intention of ever doing business with Ngannou again. That declaration appears to close the door on a potential reconciliation. Chael Sonnen’s comments ultimately framed the situation as one where Francis Ngannou’s imposing demeanor may have led to him being judged more harshly than his actions warranted.

Chael Sonnen flames Francis Ngannou’s decision to turn down the Jake Paul

Jake Paul began searching for a replacement opponent after a planned bout with Gervonta Davis collapsed due to Davis’ legal issues. During that period, Paul publicly identified Francis Ngannou as a possible option to step in. Ngannou later stated that he felt disrespected by the callout and responded critically toward Paul’s approach.

Chael Sonnen talks about Francis Ngannou's decision to turn down Jake Paul
Chael Sonnen talks about Francis Ngannou’s decision to turn down Jake Paul (via MMA Fighting)

Paul responded by criticizing Ngannou for turning down what he viewed as a lucrative opportunity. He framed the situation as a missed payday at a time when Ngannou was inactive in combat sports. Chael Sonnen echoed that assessment, aligning with the view that declining such offers can negatively impact a prizefighter’s career momentum.

If you turn down fights you don’t think are hard, it doesn’t make you a noble man, it makes you unemployed. You’re a prize fighter, there’s a prize and you’re insulted? You turned down the challenge, you lose.

Chael Sonnen via YouTube

Paul is now set to face Anthony Joshua, the same boxer who knocked out Ngannou in his most recent professional outing. That development has further shifted attention toward Ngannou’s recent decisions and standing in boxing. In that context, Sonnen’s comments carry added weight, given how events have unfolded since the rejected offer.

Also Read: