Francis Ngannou Addresses His UFC Departure: No Regrets

Former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has once again addressed widespread speculation regarding his decision to leave the UFC, refuting claims that he made an error.

In 2023, Ngannou opted not to renew his contract with the UFC following disagreements over several key demands. Post-UFC, he secured a multi-fight agreement with the PFL and participated in high-profile boxing matches against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

Despite these ventures, the 39-year-old has competed in only a single mixed martial arts bout since his departure from the UFC.

Earlier this year, Ngannou also concluded his association with the PFL. He is now slated to make his return on May 16, fighting under the Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) banner. Known as 'The Predator,' he is scheduled to face Philipe Lins as part of the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano event, broadcasting live on Netflix.

Francis Ngannou's Stance on His UFC Exit

In a recent discussion with Ariel Helwani, Francis Ngannou declared his departure from the UFC as the “best decision” he's ever made, asserting it as a significant part of his legacy:

“It’s the best decision of my life… It’s part of a legacy because I’ve done something that nobody has done before. Nobody could have reached the position I’m in right now before.”

Ngannou elaborated that his exit from the UFC paved the way for more lucrative opportunities. He is now poised to feature in Most Valuable Promotions' inaugural MMA event and Netflix's pioneering live MMA broadcast:

“I opened that door, and I did it my own way. I was the first. What do you want me to prove? I went out there being the first to take on two of the best boxers at the moment, and now I’m the first to open the first MMA event on Netflix… If somebody doesn’t understand, then they need no explanation.”

Earlier in the month, following the press conference for the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano event, Ngannou also commented on how his UFC departure impacts his legacy, telling MMA Junkie:

“Let me tell you what’s legacy. My legacy right now is my kids back home, my family back home getting health care, getting security, being able to put food on the table, and being able to put a roof over their heads. That’s a better legacy. You can have the Muhammad Ali legacy, or whatever you want; if your kid cannot attend school, he has no place in society. If your kid doesn’t have food in his stomach, that legacy doesn’t help you for anything.”

“You cannot go to the store, or to the gas station, or to school, and pay the school a fee with legacy. You have to understand that. This is bullsh*t; the promotion feeds fighters and tricks fighters, and they’re all out there ‘fighting for legacy.’ Good for you. Keep the legacy. Give me my pay, what I deserve.”