“That Was Definitely Something That Was Important to Me”: Days After Israel Adesanya’s Support, Francis Ngannou Reveals Details About “Exciting” PFL Ambitions

When Francis Ngannou left the UFC, he had some visions about the contract that the promotion didn’t agree on. He wanted a place among the board of directors to represent the fighters, a vision that was supported by Israel Adesanya as well. Now, he’s joined the PFL and mentioned in a recent interview the rival promotion because their visions were aligned with each other.

Francis Ngannou was the hottest free agent for over four months before he joined Peter Murray‘s promotion. The announcement created a lot of excitement among the MMA fans. But there was more to his deal. Let us take a look at what he had to say.

Francis Ngannou and PFL share the same vision

‘The predator’ appeared in an interview with DAZN MMA as he discussed his new role in the company besides being a fighter. The former UFC champion will have equity in the promotion along with the role of the chairman of PFL’s expansion in Africa, which is slated to take effect in 2024. Francis Ngannou mentioned that this was the turning point for his decision to join the PFL.

Ngannou’s vision to represent fighters and their interests was what aligned with Murray’s promotion. He said, “That was definitely something that was important to me, to bring opportunity back in Africa.” Ngannou mentioned that it was the PFL brass who started the conversation regarding PFL Africa because they knew what he wanted all along. He added, “Their vision, I listen to them and their vision aligns with what I want with mine, with what matters to me, and that was one of the exciting facts.” Israel Adesanya always had Ngannou’s back and even mentioned once that he agreed with the changes ‘The Predator’ asked for.

When will Ngannou fight?

Francis Ngannou has struck a global strategic partnership with the PFL. The promotion claims that the agreement with the French-Cameroonian fighter is one of the most valuable MMA deals ever. Apart from being a chairman of the new African expansion, He will also be allowed to compete in boxing matches. However, Ngannou isn’t planning to fight anytime soon.

There is no word on ‘The Predator’s first PFL opponent since he will have his first fight in 2024. There are certain speculations linking Ngannou to Tyson Fury for a boxing match. Even Deontay Wilder’s name has also crept up as one of the dream opponents for the former UFC champion.

READ MORE: “He’s Like a Mad Scientist”: Director of the Conor McGregor Documentary Compares the Former Champ to LeBron James and Tom Brady

Ngannou has already made a positive impact after joining the PFL. His first opponent receives a base pay of $2 million, which is more than what some of the major promotions have to offer to their fighters. We will have to wait and see what pans out in the future.

WATCH THIS STORY: As Francis Ngannou Joins PFL, Take a Look at the Deadliest Finishes From the Former UFC Champ