Francis Ngannou successfully defended his title against the interim champion Cyril Gane at the main event of UFC 270. Ngannou totally controlled the fight and beat Ciryl via a unanimous decision.
However, the Predator made a shocking revelation during the post-fight interview of the fight. While talking to Joe Rogan, Francis revealed that coming to the fight he had an MCL injury. His lower knee was hurt during the camp for his fight.
Consequently, Ngannou could have pulled out of the fight. But, the champion chose to fight as he wanted to prove to everyone else of his elite class and to make a statement. Which he certainly did.
“It’s been a very tough training camp. Very tough 10 months. I came like three weeks ago and hurt my knee, tore my MCL completely. Hurt my ACL with all those stuff. Wanted to get out of the fight but couldn’t see me from retrieving from the fight. Because it was a moment for me to make a statement. To remind people that I am the champ”
“We did it! It’s been an incredible journey!” – @francis_ngannou ????#UFC270 pic.twitter.com/JwXJD9fhYX
— UFC on BT Sport (@btsportufc) January 23, 2022
Ngannou definitely proved his class by showing an absolutely different level of skill tonight. He took down Gane, clinched well, and maintained a great position on the ground.
What’s next for Francis Ngannou in the UFC?
The hype around the Ngannou vs Gane fight was unreal. The back story the fighters had and the uncertainty of Ngannou’s future in the promotion made it even more interesting. All of that has finally come to an end. To the benefit of Francis, the ball is now in his court.
Since Francis defended his title, he has to decide whether to stay or leave the promotion. Obviously, he wants a better deal.
“I want a new contract. I think I deserve more. I think my value is worth more than what it is currently on the contract.” Said Ngannou in an interview before the fight.
If UFC refuses to give him more and adds a clause for him to fight in boxing, he might leave UFC. Nevertheless, fight fans would certainly want that a fighter with such class and elitism should stay in the UFC.
