Exclusive: PFL's Renan Ferreira speaks on Francis Ngannou demanding $2M payday for opponents ahead of Battle of the Giants clash
Francis Ngannou's groundbreaking contract with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) following his exit from the UFC has set a new standard in the world of mixed martial arts. After leaving the UFC, Ngannou negotiated a lucrative deal that guarantees his opponents a minimum payout of $2 million, a move that Renan Ferreira, his upcoming opponent, deeply appreciates.
Ferreira, who will face Ngannou in his return to MMA after two boxing ventures, expressed admiration for 'The Predator's' commitment to uplifting his fellow fighters. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda MMA, Ferreira said:
"I mean I think it shows who he is and the priority he has. It's great! I'm sure he understands what it takes to be at this level, to compete at this stage. So I commend him for that."
Ngannou signed a multi-fight deal with PFL in May 2023, which was seen as a monumental moment for fighters' rights and compensation. Alongside the hefty opponent purse, his contract includes participation in PFL’s pay-per-view “super fight” division, a role on the global advisory board advocating for fighter interests, and equity ownership as the chairman of the PFL Africa league. Notably, it also allows Ngannou the freedom to pursue boxing opportunities.
Ngannou is set to take on Ferreira on Oct. 19 at the PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants card at The Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This matchup marks a significant moment for Ngannou, who is looking to bounce back from consecutive boxing losses against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
Ferreira, meanwhile, defeated Ryan Bader at the PFL vs. Bellator card in February. He enters the contest on a four-fight win streak with as many finishes.
Rennan Ferreira previews upcoming PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants clash against Francis Ngannou
Francis Ngannou is gearing up to face Renan Ferreira in the main event of PFL Super Fights on Oct. 19.
Ngannou boasts an impressive record of 17 wins in 20 professional fights with 12 victories by knockout. He made history as the first Cameroon-born champion and holds multiple accolades, including six Performance of the Night bonuses.
On the other hand, Renan Ferreira will look to capitalize on this high-stakes opportunity with his well-rounded skills. The Brazilian, who has 11 knockout victories on his record, aims to make a statement against Ngannou. Previewing the upcoming clash in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda MMA, Ferreira said:
"Both Francis and I have similar styles. This just happens to be the style that fans enjoy watching and following. So it's just two massive guys with heavy hands that go out there and drop people. So what's not to love?"