Francis Ngannou has finally signed with an MMA organization after months of free agency. Becoming the PFL’s marquee signing, Ngannou is set to become one of the organization’s highest-paid fighters. However, many believe that this move could spell financial doom for the PFL.
Previously, Francis Ngannou beat Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 in January last year. Following an injury and some time to think, Ngannou realized that he won’t be continuing with the UFC. Thus. he vacated his heavyweight title and entered free agency, which at first, appeared as though it would backfire.
However, an entire year after Ngannou’s mother teased the move, he finally made it official. Speaking to Ariel Helwani on the MMA Hour, Francis gave an insight into the financials behind the move and his fights. “So, it depends if he (his opponent) have the leverage to negotiate and ask for more”. Further, Francis continues, “He will be having a minimum of $2 million and yes, we guarantee that. As for mine, I get a little more than that, let’s say that”.
For the most part, “The Predator” has been a big advocate for fighter pay. Thus, with his PFL contract Francis will be able to secure not just himself, but his opponent a hefty payday as well. Additionally, Ngannou managed to secure a seat at the table, allowing him to represent athletes’ interests while on the PFL advisory board. Whilst the contract is only for “around 2 fights”, Ngannou will be able to make his impact for much longer.
Francis Ngannou signs with the PFL- fans react!
Previously, many including BKFC’s David Feldman suggested that Ngannou was asking for ‘unrealistic’ money which nobody would agree to. Contrary to Feldman’s beliefs, not only has PFL offered him the deal, but Francis reveals that there were never any discussions with or regarding BKFC either.
Although Francis skimmed over the finer details, he is reportedly set to earn around $8 million per fight. Fighting in the “super-fight PPV division,” his fight purse would include a guaranteed sum along with 50% of the PPV revenue for his fights. Whilst it seems as though the Cameroonian has made the best decision of his life, there are others who feel differently.
BREAKING: @PFLMMA announces chapter 11. Becomes solvent due to over extended contracts and not enough capital to continue support of the events. pic.twitter.com/bxE7kSaEZf
— FightClubTesla 🤜 $TSLA 🤛 (@fightclubtesla) May 16, 2023
I don’t even know where to watch PFL.
— ShooterMcKevin (@ShooterMcKevin1) May 16, 2023
PFL is betting the company on a 36 year-old who is competing in another combat sport at the same time
— Brian (@BStizzl) May 16, 2023
He retires in two years to do action movies.
— ramachandran krishnamoorthy (@elcrownprince) May 16, 2023
Going all in on fighters that are at the end of their career 😬. Happy for Nganou 👏🏽. He must be shocked they accepted his terms.
— 👇🏽 (@MMACODE) May 16, 2023
For one, neither the PFL nor Ngannou is known for selling a huge number of PPVs. According to reports, Ngannou’s title win against Stipe Miocic was one of the lowest-rated PPVs of 2021 at 718,000 buys. Hence many have rightfully questioned the PFL’s gamble on Ngannou. With the former UFC heavyweight not set to fight until 2024, it could further dent the promotion’s opportunity to make significant profits.
Currently, Ngannou is planning to have a boxing fight later this year. Despite talks of a two-fight plan with Tyson Fury falling through, Francis remains optimistic that something will soon materialize. At the same time, his decision to box first after signing a contract with the PFL has come under heavy scrutiny. With Francis not favored against any of his potential boxing opponents, a loss could be catastrophic for the PFL’s business with him.
