Francis Ngannou is a force to be reckoned with in both boxing and MMA, according to PFL CEO Peter Murray, who recently made that clear in an interview with MMA Junkie Radio. “Francis, he’s not going away… Francis is on a mission,” Murray declared.
Ngannou recently turned heads with his boxing prowess, surprising the combat sports world with his stellar performance against WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. Despite not securing an official win, Ngannou demonstrated his boxing skills, landing a clean knockdown of Fury and going the distance in the fight, ultimately losing a 10-round split decision, a result that drew questions from many observers.
Ngannou’s showing has sparked interest in new opportunities. While initially expected to make his MMA debut with the PFL next year, there is now growing interest in seeing him face high-profile boxing challengers, including Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua.
Murray affirmed that the PFL fully supports Ngannou’s pursuits in both boxing and MMA, expressing excitement about Ngannou’s role in the promotion’s upcoming pay-per-view division and his return to the cage in 2024. Additionally, Ngannou’s agreement with the PFL includes his involvement in launching PFL Africa, a venture that is set to come to fruition in 2025.
Ngannou’s commitment to paving the way for future athletes and fighters from Africa is a testament to his passion for the sport and his desire to leave a lasting legacy. Murray highlighted Ngannou’s dedication to ensuring that PFL Africa becomes a reality and serves as a platform for nurturing talent from the continent.
Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.