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“Dejected” UFC Star, Who Followed Francis Ngannou’s Footsteps, Makes Sensational Claims on His Fallout With Dana White

Published 10/15/2023, 6:31 AM EDT

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via Imago

In recent times, the UFC has encountered a formidable rivalry with the PFL. An increasing number of UFC fighters are opting to sign a deal with the PFL, citing many compelling rationales. These encompass the pledge of more freedom, good recognition, and a substantial revenue stream.

Thanks to substantial investments from Saudi Arabia and the addition of Francis Ngannou to their roster, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has solidified its reputation as a challenging institution. Day by day, their authenticity and influence are on the rise. And in a recent development, the former UFC fighter Derek Brunson offered insight into why fighters might prefer PFL over the UFC.

Derek Brunson explains why he left UFC for PFL

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Having reigned supreme in the middleweight division for an extended period, Derek Brunson harbored a conviction that his moment to vie for the championship had arrived. Nevertheless, Dana White‘s actions claimed otherwise, as they consigned him to the outskirts of the title fight scene.

Brunson recently had a conversation with MMAjunkie, the host asked Brunson about what forced him to change sides. Brunson was quick in his response and added “Yeah, the million dollars, you know, it’s… they got the million-dollar tournament, there’s no lobbying for what you want, you know? You go out and get it. You know.”

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Brunson’s patience waned as he repeatedly faced opponents who scarcely posed a challenge to his prowess. Consequently, he resolved to part ways with the UFC and align himself with the PFL. And now he could contend for a substantial million-dollar prize and the acquisition of a novel light heavyweight championship.

He further added ” I was on these huge five-fight winning streaks twice, and I never got a title shot, you know? I was kind of like, right after the fight, I felt like, okay, I win this, when I get a title shot, and I didn’t get it. I kind of felt dejected and lacked motivation and just kind of was getting up for the fights. Now, I got a new motivation.”  

Brunson emphasized that his affection for UFC is far from anything. He justified his claims by adding that he was not recognized as a fighter.

Why did Francis Ngannou leave the UFC for PFL?

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The most prominent and popular face who left UFC and Joined PFL was the former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. The ‘predator’s dynamic with Dana White as well as UFC deteriorated badly this year. Ngannou harbored this belief that his remuneration was insufficient, and he found that his agency restricted some of his fights. He proposed to the UFC to let him fight at least four times a year, however, his demands were not fulfilled.

Simultaneously, he harbored ambitions beyond the UFC realm, which included forays into boxing. His discontent stemmed from what he perceived as unsatisfactory treatment by the UFC. Ngannou desired greater prominence which was not acknowledged by UFC.  Finally, he took an exit from UFC and joined PFl where he could follow his ambition in boxing.

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With PFL getting more and more recognition day by day, it’s challenging the dominance that was set by UFC. What do you think? Will PFL be able to shake the UFC’s Imperial throne? Do tell us in the comments below.

Watch this story: After Floyd Mayweather Sends Private Jet to Israel, Dwayne Johnson Breaks Silence on the Israel-Hamas Conflict: “I’m Heartbroken, Angry & Sickened”

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Written by:

Suryakant Das

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Suryakant Das is a passionate fan of UFC, mixed martial arts, and bodybuilding. Alongside his passion for sports activities, he is training to be a chartered accountant and has previously worked as a content lead in varied organizations. Suryakant's writing reveals a unique perspective on the world of MMA, enriched by his hunger to consume the latest happenings in the sport.
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Edited by:

Joyita Das