Ngannou becomes free agent as he leaves PFLImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Francis Ngannou had two boxing fights during his time with the PFLByCoral BarryCombat sports senior journalistPublished41 minutes agoFrancis Ngannou has left the PFL and is now a free agent in mixed martial arts.The former UFC champion joined the PFL in 2023 but has fought just once for the MMA promotion, while also overseeing its expansion into Africa.
Ngannou, 39, has not fought in MMA since October 2024.
“The PFL has made the decision to part ways with Francis Ngannou,” the PFL reported.
“We wish him success in the next chapter of his combat sports career.”
Ngannou’s exit from the UFC in 2023 was a massive moment in MMA as one of the sport’s biggest stars opted to walk away from the world’s biggest promotion.
The Cameroonian has advocated for fighters to have greater control of their careers and to be paid better, given the comparison in their earnings to athletes in other major sports.
Ngannou previously reported two fights in boxing earned him more than his entire 14-fight UFC career combined.
Those boxing bouts were not organised by the PFL but with boxing promotions.
A return to the UFC may be on the cards with the heavyweight division struggling for consistency since Ngannou’s exit.
Briton Tom Aspinall is the current UFC champion, but has not fought since October and underwent double eye surgery in February.
Ngannou may also look to be included on Netflix’s first MMA event on 16 May, with Ronda Rousey facing Gina Carano in her return to competitive fighting.
