Coach Reveals That Francis Ngannou Will 'For Sure' Fight In 2023, Slams Critics Of PFL Deal
Francis Ngannou’s coach feels critiques about his exit from the UFC aren’t paying attention to the big picture.
Ngannou shocked the MMA world when he announced earlier this year that he had signed a deal with the PFL in free agency. He split from the UFC in January following a long and tumultuous contract dispute.
Ngannou’s new agreement is for multiple fights in the PFL and he’s expected to make his SmartCage debut next year. He’s targeted to be a massive presence for the PFL’s pay-per-view division.
Since signing with the PFL, news surrounding Ngannou’s planned professional boxing debut hasn’t produced a formal booking. He’s called out some of the top names in boxing, including Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
A timeline for Ngannou’s return has remained uncertain, but his coach feels an announcement could come in the next few weeks.
Dewey Cooper Addresses Critics Of Francis Ngannou’s PFL Deal
During a recent interview with MMA Underground, coach Dewey Cooper addressed critics of Ngannou’s PFL move.
“Francis is very happy,” Cooper said. “Anytime someone does something revolutionary, there’s always pushback. Anytime everyone steps out of the mold, people are always questioning…guess what? All of his thoughts of what he wanted were bigger than the money, and sometimes that’s what it’s about.”
Cooper was then asked about the latest surrounding Ngannou’s fighting return.
“He’s gonna be fighting this year for sure,” Cooper revealed. “You’ll see Francis get his scrap on this year.”
Ngannou’s last fight came against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270. He was expected to face Jon Jones for his next heavyweight title defense before parting ways with the promotion.
Ngannou’s MMA return and boxing debut seem to be coming soon, and fans might not have to wait much longer to see one of the greatest heavyweights in the world look to add another highlight.
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