Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou parted company with the organization following unsuccessful discussions for an extension of his contract.
With time, Ngannou’s association with the UFC gradually deteriorated. Resulting in a strained relationship between the involved parties.
The Cameroonian fighter strongly believes that his disagreement with UFC President Dana White primarily stemmed from his strong desire for increased control over his contractual obligations.
However, a new phase has now commenced for Francis as he recently signed a lucrative agreement with the PFL (Professional Fighters League).
This transition represents a significant advancement in his career since the PFL not only warmly received Ngannou but also ensured the fulfillment of all his contractual requests.
Francis Ngannou claim on controversial UFC contract tactics
During a recent appearance on the LeBatardShow, Francis made a surprising claim. Stating that he felt “constrained” under his previous contract with the UFC.
The heavyweight fighter shed light on the financial aspects of his dealings with the organization.
Revealing astonishing figures involved in his contractual agreements.
“I had a 8 fight contract, and I wanted to fulfill that contract but they didn’t allow me since I wasn’t going to sign another contract. Because they knew if I fulfill that contract, I’m automatically free.
They used some kind of a dirty game there, freeze me out and they knew how much I was getting to fight, which wasn’t much at all, just few pennies.”
‘The Predator’ added:
“My contract was exclusive so I didn’t have any other source of revenue, but they were holding me captive in that. And then they tried act like I want more money.
I didn’t wanted more money, if it was about more money I would have signed the contract because there was more money into those contract. I was offered $100-$120k for main card fight.”
Francis Ngannou’s pay-check from UFC
According to past reported fighter pay reports, Francis did indeed have a contractual guarantee of $100,000 circa 2019 after his defeat of Cain Velasquez.
But as of 2020 he made over $200,000 after defeating Jairzinho Rozenstruik, and over $600,000 for his final fight in the UFC.
The expulsion of Francis from the UFC has become a topic of discussion within the MMA community.
This unprecedented decision, making him the first reigning champion to leave the promotion since B.J.
Penn in 2004, has sparked curiosity among fans and experts, who are eager to understand the motives behind his departure.
During a recent interview on The MMA Hour, Ngannou’s manager, Marquel Martin, disclosed that there was a genuine chance of ‘The Predator’ remaining with the UFC.
“I thought it got very close. I wasn’t a part of the conversations in the fourth quarter, if you will, and you can probably guess why.
But in my conversations post-those dinners, there was a real chance that he was going to sign. It just had to be under the right terms.”
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