The UFC’s decision to set up an interim title fight between Ciryl Gane and Derrick Lewis was not very well received by the MMA community. Both fans and pundits alike were confused as to why an interim title fight made sense right now, as Francis Ngannou was willing and able to fight. 

White and the UFC wanted Ngannou to defend his title in August. However, ‘The Predator’ stated he would be ready to defend his title by September at the earliest. The promotion then snubbed the champion and went ahead to set up an interim title fight between ‘Bon Gamin’ and ‘The Black Beast’.

‘The Predator’ shared his thoughts on the Interim title. He said, ​​“I heard something today (from Dana White) like, ‘It’s going to be like the IBF and WBC unified title.’ No, there’s not a unified title. It’s one promotion, it’s one belt, the UFC belt. It’s not like it has a different name like the PFL coming to challenge the UFC, then we talk about unify the belt. I was there expecting to fight, and they just come up with some sort of interim title. That was very surprising because in the past we didn’t get an interim title, because Stipe wasn’t active and they didn’t even consider that at all. They didn’t want to talk about it.”

UFC 265 Early Prelims: Manel Kape vs Ode Osbourne: Prediction and Analysis

‘The Predator’ continued, “I’m at the point where, when it comes to me, nothing good is coming my way, it looks like. They aren’t making anything good to come my way. It’s OK, but I think at this point regarding my last run, I deserve at least some respect as a UFC champion. I’ve been down, I know my low time, and I face it” (H/t mmajunkie.usatoday.com)

What is next for Francis Ngannou?

In the same interview, Ngannou stated that if he had the choice, he would like to face Jones. However, he understands that the winner of Lewis vs Gane will most likely be next for him. He further added that he hopes that the UFC does not call him and say that he is fighting on a certain date. 

Trending

Michael Chandler Handed Sad Update on Conor McGregor Fight at UFC 303 – “He’s Not Going to Get Pay-Per-View Points”

April 24, 2024 07:47 PM EDT

“A MF Grabs Me” – Shaquille O’Neal Almost Came to Blows With UFC Star During Camp in Hawaii, NBA Legend Reveals Untold Stor

April 25, 2024 08:24 PM EDT

Violently Threatening Conor McGregor Takes a Bad Turn for 50 Cent as UFC World Condemns Rapper After Beef Resurfaces

April 23, 2024 01:53 PM EDT

“Bubble Gut From High HGH Abuse” – Joe Rogan’s Dire Health Concern Flares Up as Fans Worry About UFC Commentator

April 16, 2024 05:03 AM EDT

Dana White’s Approval Backfires on Diego Lopes, Purse Withheld Along With Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 300

April 26, 2024 07:41 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest UFC stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Rather, he would like to have a good conversation with the UFC, where both parties come to a mutual agreement regarding his next fight and when it will take place. On the plus side, the unification bout will become even bigger now, given the history between Francis Ngannou and both Gane and Lewis.