PFL President reveals the key to signing Francis Ngannou into their organization

PFL President reveals the key to signing Francis Ngannou into their organization

Ray Sefo on Francis Ngannou

Francis, who has been having contract disputes with the UFC has been eager for a big-money fight against current WBC Champion Tyson Fury. The UFC had done everything in their power to make sure Francis doesn’t gain the advantage of having leverage (the heavyweight title) against the UFC during contract negotiations.

To this extent, they had matched him up against former teammates Cyril Gane. Many gave Gane the advantage in striking because of his movement and elusiveness which seem impossible for a heavyweight. While that was True Francis surprised everyone by showcasing his wrestling skills and winning the championship rounds soundly.

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Francis’ manager even claimed that they received anonymous threats about Ngannou’s future with the company as they were preparing to walk out for the fight. Francis’s win was such an embarrassing moment for the company that Dana White didn’t even wait to wrap the belt around his waist, claiming he had to handle something in the back.

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“Francis is my teammate”- PFL President says he’s already working closely with Francis Ngannou

Francis Ngannou
Francis Ngannou

Soon after the bout, Francis announced that he’d be undergoing surgery on his knees that may keep him out of action for the year. Francis made it very clear that he wouldn’t resign with the UFC if they won’t add a boxing clause in his contract. Other organizations are eager to sign him, and PFL’s president said they’d do everything in their power to make this deal happen.

Talking to Hosheh MMA, he said, “100 percent. If Francis is a free agent, Francis is my teammate, you know? So, when he becomes a free agent and he’s allowed to talk to anybody in terms of, should I say when he’s ‘shopping,’ then we’ll definitely sit down and talk. Until then I don’t see him going anywhere, but anything’s possible, 100 percent. [50/50 pay-per-view (PPV) shares will attract all sorts], absolutely. That’s the key.” (H/T MMA Mania)

Also read – “You hope to God he doesn’t miss,” Eric Nicksick talks about what it feels like to hold pads for Francis Ngannou

Also read – “Pay it up”- Luke Rockhold urges the UFC to pay their megastars like Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou appropriately