“Uncle Dana was Right” – Mixed Reactions Break Out After Francis Ngannou Hints at Ending Run with PFL to Target UFC White House Fight

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou teases a potential return at the UFC White House event as PFL contract may end soon.

“Uncle Dana was Right” – Mixed Reactions Break Out After Francis Ngannou Hints at Ending Run with PFL to Target UFC White House Fight

Francis Ngannou plans to leave the PFL for White House (via MMA Fighting, FOX Sports)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

Francis Ngannou’s move to the PFL in 2023 was controversial because an established UFC champion shifted to a smaller promotion. The decision placed him at odds with UFC CEO Dana White, a central figure in modern MMA. However, Ngannou recently stated that his PFL deal will end in time for a potential spot on the UFC White House event in 2026.

Ngannou left the UFC in early 2023 after completing his contract, which required him to vacate the heavyweight title. He then signed with the PFL under terms allowing him to compete in professional boxing. His PFL run has included only one MMA fight, a knockout win over Renan Ferreira in October 2024. The remainder of his activity came in boxing bouts against Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.

The Cameroonian heavyweight recently discussed the possibility of facing Jon Jones at the UFC White House event, calling it one of the biggest matchups available. The idea aligns with Ngannou’s interest in returning for significant opportunities. His comments followed his confirmation that his PFL deal ends before the event. He emphasized that the timing fits his competitive goals.

I think [my next fight] is going to be MMA since I’m getting very close with the PFL contract [ending]. They have to give me a fight. I don’t have a hand in it, so I’m not the decision-maker. I don’t really want to stay out this long.

Francis Ngannou via The Ariel helwani Show

Since joining the PFL, Ngannou has fought only once in MMA over a two-year span. The promotion built a marketing blueprint that centered on him, including his involvement in PFL Africa. However, Ngannou did not attend the league’s Africa launch event, which reportedly created friction with PFL founder Donn Davis. This added to existing concerns about his limited activity.

White has repeatedly characterized Ngannou negatively in public discussions. The UFC CEO also claimed that Ngannou once confronted him physically in 2018, requesting a performance bonus and a private flight for his first fight against Stipe Miocic at UFC 220. These accounts resurfaced during recent commentary on Ngannou’s career decisions, and their conflict continues to influence public perception.

Once one of the most admired heavyweights in the sport, Francis Ngannou now faces scrutiny as his actions draw increasing criticism across combat sports circles. His shifting promotional ties and disputes with industry leaders have changed how he is viewed by many. As his PFL contract nears its end, his next move may determine how his standing evolves.

Fans react to Francis Ngannou’s plans to not re-sign with the PFL

Many fans reflected on how Francis Ngannou’s explosive knockout power helped build his reputation as one of the most exciting heavyweights in MMA. His rise from the sand mines of Cameroon to a world championship was often cited as a source of motivation. Supporters recalled how his fights consistently carried a sense of danger. They viewed his journey as one of the sport’s most inspiring success stories.

Francis Ngannou Dana White
Francis Ngannou Dana White (via MMA Fighting)

A section of fans expressed renewed excitement after learning that Ngannou’s PFL contract would soon come to an end. They felt the timing opened the door for his long-awaited return to the UFC. The possibility of seeing him compete at the June 2026 White House event heightened anticipation. Many saw it as the perfect stage for his The Predator’s comeback.

Other fans were more critical, pointing to Ngannou’s long stretches of inactivity since leaving the UFC. They felt his limited MMA appearances weakened his claim as the division’s top star. Some echoed Dana White’s assessments of Francis Ngannou’s attitude and public conduct. This group argued that his recent behavior had shifted their perception of him.

Also Read: