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Cameroonian-French professional mixed martial artist, Francis Ngannou, has long dominated the heavyweight division of the UFC. Moreover, ‘The Predator’ was also the organization’s reigning heavyweight champion whose mere presence instilled fear in the hearts of his opponents. On January 14, 2023, it was revealed that Ngannou has been released from his UFC contract. And that he has become a free agent.

This decision evoked a response from many notable names from the combat sports fraternity. In fact, YouTuber turned-boxer, Jake Paul, recently shared his thoughts on Ngannou’s departure from the organization.

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It was recently revealed that the UFC was planning to pit Jon Jones against Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title at UFC 285. This in turn caused a furor among fans about Ngannou’s status as the heavyweight champion.

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Meanwhile, UFC president, Dana White, cleared doubts regarding the same. He said, “We are going to release him from his contract. We are giving up the right to match. He can go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants. We offered Ngannou a deal that would make him the highest-paid Heavyweight of all time.”

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White also revealed that Ngannou declined the offer. And in turn, also forfeited his heavyweight title.

Jake Paul opens up about the Francis Ngannou situation

Ngannou’s departure caused a commotion in the combat sports community. Paul, who rarely shies away from talking his mind, took to Twitter to share his thoughts.

Paul paid tribute to Ngannou’s MMA prowess by referring to him as ‘the baddest man on the planet’. Moreover, he also mentioned that Ngannou will remain the heavyweight champion until he loses. This statement comes at a time when Professional Fighters League (PFL) released a cryptic message about Ngannou’s departure. And fans suggested Paul, who is currently transitioning into MMA with PFL, as his potential opponent.

Fans share their thoughts on Paul’s statement

Paul’s statements intrigued fans, to say the least. In fact, a lot of fans took to social media to share their opinions about the same.

UFC fighter Renato Moicano nodded in agreement with Paul. And mentioned that Ngannou is the heavyweight champion of the world.

Meanwhile, a few fans speculated if Paul would fight Ngannou in PFL.

On the other hand, a user mentioned that the UFC has had no issue moving on without Ngannou. And also added that Jones was the main crowd puller.

Similarly, some fans called Ngannou out for not fighting Jones.

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However, a user felt that it was wrong to call any fighter better than Ngannou based on mere speculation.

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What are your thoughts on Paul’s statements? Let us know in the comments below.

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