Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has confirmed that his Professional Fighters League (PFL) contract is approaching its conclusion, opening the door to potential fights and opportunities in 2026. The Cameroonian powerhouse, who signed with the PFL in 2023, has fought just once for the promotion, knocking out Renan Ferreira last year.

Contract and Future Plans

Speaking on the Ariel Helwani Show, Ngannou indicated that his contract with the PFL is almost up and that “everything can happen” in the coming year.

“I’m getting very close with the PFL contract, so they have to give me a fight,” Ngannou said, highlighting his desire to remain active and avoid long periods outside the cage. While he did not specify the exact end date of his contract, he confirmed he would be a free agent in time for the UFC event at the White House on 4 July 2026.

Potential Matchups

Ngannou hinted at dream fights with some of combat sports’ biggest names:

• Jon Jones: The former UFC light heavyweight champion, now potentially moving up to heavyweight.
• Deontay Wilder: Former boxing world champion, presenting a crossover boxing bout opportunity.

“That could happen. If I were you, I wouldn’t be that excited, that fight being so complicated,” Ngannou said of a potential showdown with Jon Jones.

He also did not rule out re-signing with the PFL, stating:

“First I need a fight, because I don’t want to stay out this long. But if there is a fight, why not?”

Career Recap

Ngannou left the UFC in January 2023, citing disagreements with UFC president Dana White. During his UFC tenure, Ngannou became known for his devastating knockout power, compiling 18 wins from 21 professional MMA bouts.

Since leaving the UFC, Ngannou has also pursued professional boxing, suffering defeats against British heavyweights Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, while maintaining his goal to remain active in combat sports.

Relationship with UFC and Dana White

Ngannou’s future with the UFC would largely depend on his relationship with White. The two have had a strained history, with White describing Ngannou as a “bad guy” after an alleged confrontation involving a post-fight bonus dispute.

Ngannou responded to the claims:

“Why am I not surprised? If Dana says this, then I’m out here to defend myself. Whatever he said, if he’s at peace with it, it’s OK. Maybe I’m getting old. I have less energy for drama. I just want to be at peace and for people to leave me alone.”

Ngannou emphasised that his departure from the UFC was motivated by a desire for freedom and autonomy rather than financial incentives, citing frustrations with restrictive UFC contract rules.

What’s Next?

As Ngannou approaches free agency, fans and analysts are speculating on possible MMA and boxing matchups in 2026. Whether he chooses to re-sign with the PFL, return to the UFC, or pursue high-profile boxing bouts, the heavyweight contender remains one of combat sports’ most exciting and unpredictable figures.