Breaking: Francis Ngannou reveals top options of MMA promotions he's 'very close' to signing with
Francis Ngannou's departure from the UFC shocked fans as he became the first reigning champion to leave the promotion since B.J. Penn in 2004. The former heavyweight champion recently gave an update on his mixed martial arts free agency.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani of The MMA Hour, 'The Predator' stated:
"I have made my decision. I haven't committed or got a deal done yet. I know what my next move is going to be. I know that I want to fight boxing first then after that I will fight MMA. I'm going to sign with one MMA promotion. I haven't made a decision on that yet. Very close, but I'll make my decision. It's not like I've been sitting out here empty-handed. I've been very busy."
Francis Ngannou was then asked which promotion he was close to joining, responding:
"There's PFL and ONE FC that we are very close... We will see. Anyways, when there is information, when I decide, you guys are going to know so don't worry."
Check out Francis Ngannou's comments on his free agency below (starting at the 2:00:00 mark):
Ngannou supposedly requested that fighters have the ability to sign sponsorships, receive healthcare benefits, and have a representative present during UFC board meetings. The former heavyweight champion also desired the ability to participate in boxing matches, however, he was willing to hold off on those plans. The UFC declined his request, leading 'The Predator' to vacate his heavyweight title and leave the promotion.
Francis Ngannou's departure: 'The Predator' rules out future matchup with Jon Jones
Francis Ngannou's departure from the UFC prevented fans from seeing the former heavyweight champion welcome Jon Jones to the division. 'The Predator' has ruled out the possibility of them clashing down the line, stating:
"The fight that I would have liked to have, but unfortuantely we are not there. That fight didn't happen and probably will never happen now that he's on a very long contract with the UFC so that's not happening anymore."
Catch Francis Ngannou's comments on Jon Jones below (6:57):
UFC President Dana White also ruled out the possibility of 'The Predator' returning to the promotion, claiming that he attempted to make the fight happen for two years. He added that the former heavyweight champion will never be in the promotion again. While the promotional frontman has gone back on his word before, it is unclear if he would do so now as Ngannou's departure was not fueled by a desire for more money.
Check out Dana White's comments below:
Dana White says Francis Ngannou will never be in the UFC again.
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