Francis Ngannou is the man of the hour ahead of his boxing debut against Tyson Fury. In a surprising turn of events, the former UFC heavyweight champ finds himself set to face the lineal heavyweight champ of boxing. However, the journey to this point was not as straightforward and easy as Francis would have liked.
Previously, Francis vacated his heavyweight title after unsuccessful contract talks with the UFC. Although the Cameroonian would be paid handsomely, he could not come to an agreement with the terms of the contract. As such, he chose to part ways with the promotion, entering free agency instead. After a long time out and away, Francis finally put pen to paper with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in May 2023.
Speaking to Joe Rogan about the same, and how lucrative his contract was. “After this (Tyson Fury) fight, I’m gonna go out fight in the PFL. For one fight in the PFL, I gonna be making 3 times what I’ve made in my entire (UFC) career”. Not only that but any opponent Ngannou faces would be guaranteed a $2 million purse. Naturally, hearing what the 37-year-old had to say, Rogan was taken by surprise.
To put things into context, Francis Ngannou’s UFC career earnings have been estimated to be around $3.7 million. Thus, to say that he will be making 2-3 times that amount per fight, is a staggering amount, to say the least. As such, let’s take a deeper look and find out more about Ngannou’s deal with the PFL.
Francis Ngannou’s unbelievable PFL deal
Previously, Ngannou revealed that he had reached an agreement with the PFL. Naturally, after months of negotiations with the UFC, BKFC, and ONE FC, it was a big relief for the big man. At one point, it seemed as though all the promotions would opt out of a deal, seeing Ngannou’s lofty demands. Despite all doubt, Peter Murray from PFL came through with an offer Ngannou could not refuse.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗜𝗦 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘! Welcome to the Professional Fighters League @francis_ngannou pic.twitter.com/WPxuQtJtTn
— PFL (@PFLMMA) May 16, 2023
However, what was key about his deal with the PFL was the inclusion of some roles for Ngannou. According to the deal, Francis is set to receive some equity and ‘leadership roles’ as part of his contract. Alongside Jake Paul, Ngannou would be a part of the ‘super-fight PPV division’ of the PFL. Under this, a lot of big-money, high-profile bouts will be set up.
Additionally, the deal will also see a bigger chunk of the PPV revenue for the former UFC man. To make matters even more interesting, Ngannou was also made the new chairman of PFL Africa. Along with that, Francis would be able to represent fighters’ interests as well. Most importantly, however, the deal gives him the freedom to pursue his lifelong dream of professional boxing.
PFL has allowed Francis Ngannou to box Tyson Fury
Ever since his failed contract negotiations with the UFC, one key thing that has been a constant is being allowed to box. Other than Conor McGregor, no other UFC athlete has been allowed to pursue boxing endeavors. A big make or break for Ngannou, the PFL put no such restrictions for their marquee signing.
Speaking to Joe Rogan, Ngannou reveals that the PFL was even willing to assist him with the Tyson Fury fight. “That was up to me. It’s not really their expertise but they can help in some way or be involved in some way, again, it’s up to me”. For the most part, the promotion and other legalities have largely been handled by Fury’s side and Top Rank Boxing. Regardless, Ngannou is set to take home a guaranteed $10 million from the fight.
Notably, many are doubtful about Ngannou’s boxing abilities. Owing to some poor open workout showings, the knockout artist is being given a prayer. Whilst some are hoping that it is some deliberate tactic, others feel that it will be an easy night out for Fury. At the same time, Francis Ngannou has developed a knack for overcoming the impossible, and come Saturday night, he will be hoping to shock the world, one more time.