Francis Ngannou has been making waves in the world of boxing, especially after his remarkable performance against linear heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. His upcoming bout against Anthony Joshua promises another spectacle, but some wonder if a victory would spell the end of his MMA career.
UFC Hall of Famer and PFL commentator Randy Couture doesn’t share this belief.
Despite the allure of boxing and the potential for lucrative rematches, Couture remains confident that Ngannou will honor his commitments to MMA, particularly with the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
“I don’t think he’s going to walk away from this sport,” Couture emphasized. “His roots are here. This is what made him the name that he is, and the fact that he’s getting these boxing matches is because of what he did in MMA. I don’t think he’s going to walk away from this sport.”
Ngannou’s last MMA bout was his victory over Ciryl Gane in January 2022, marking his departure from the UFC. With his boxing endeavors, his potential debut in PFL may be delayed until late 2024 or early 2025, a hiatus of three years from MMA. Additionally, turning 38 in September adds another consideration.
Despite these factors, Couture believes Ngannou will find a way back to MMA, even if the timeline remains uncertain.
“I think he’s going to have to juggle a little bit,” Couture remarked. “I think the PFL is certainly willing to work with him in that regard, but I don’t see him walking away from MMA.”
Ngannou’s departure from the UFC was partly due to the desire for more control over his career, a freedom that PFL readily offered. Co-founder Donn Davis has been vocal about supporting Ngannou in his pursuit of high-profile boxing matches while accommodating his MMA aspirations.
While this might mean a delay in Ngannou’s PFL debut, Couture underscores the promotion’s unwavering support for its athletes.
“I like from day one, Pete [Murray] and Donn’s approach, we’re different,” Couture explained. “We don’t have to compete with the UFC. We’re that different… It’s about the fighters for a change instead of the three letters that represent that promotion.”
As for potential opponents, Ngannou’s attention was piqued when PFL champion Renan Ferreira swiftly defeated Bellator champion Ryan Bader. Couture sees this as the logical matchup for Ngannou.
“That makes perfect sense to me,” Couture affirmed. “I know [Ngannou is] enamored with being able to box, it’s been a dream of his for a long, long time, but I don’t think he’s walking away from MMA and the one that brought him to the dance in the first place. I think it’s logical that [Ferreira] would be the one to get the shot at Francis.”
