Francis Ngannou, the Cameroonian MMA star known as ‘The Predator,’ has left the Professional Fighters League (PFL) after four years, a tenure marked by unmet expectations and criticism from the promotion’s leadership. Despite the PFL’s initial high hopes when signing Ngannou, the organization ultimately decided to part ways with him, citing disappointment in his performance both inside and outside the cage.

Disappointment in Promotional Role and Fight Record

The PFL signed Ngannou in 2020 with the promise of $8 million per fight and a prominent executive role, including serving as Chairman of PFL Africa. However, during his time with the promotion, Ngannou only fought once, defeating Renan Ferreira at the ‘Battle of the Giants’ event in 2024. Additionally, he failed to fulfill his responsibilities as PFL Africa Chairman, notably skipping the promotion’s first event on African soil in 2023.

PFL Chairman Donn Davis expressed his disappointment, stating, ‘I expected him… We worked for two years. I’m direct and say what I think. I’m disappointed.’ Davis added that the PFL had hoped Ngannou would help bring new talent to the promotion, particularly in Africa, but his absence was a significant setback.

Dana White’s Prediction Proven Right

Dana White, CEO of the UFC, had previously warned the PFL about signing Ngannou, stating, ‘If we let guys go, feel bad for the company that gets them.’ His remarks have now taken on a new significance as the PFL’s partnership with Ngannou appears to have been a miscalculation.

Ngannou’s departure from the PFL comes after a brief return to the cage in 2024, where he submitted Ferreira. However, this single fight did not compensate for the lack of consistency in his career or his involvement with the promotion. Fans and analysts alike are now watching closely to see if Ngannou will return to fighting or if he will retire, given his substantial earnings from a career that has spanned both MMA and boxing.

UFC Veteran Criticizes ‘Selfish’ Approach

UFC veteran referee Big John McCarthy voiced his opinion on Ngannou’s career trajectory, stating, ‘Fighting is a very selfish prospect. If you are thinking about other people and other things, your career starts to go in a downward trajectory. You have got to be selfish with everything and continue to get better.’

McCarthy’s comments, made on his podcast, align with the criticisms from the PFL regarding Ngannou’s focus and commitment. The PFL had initially mocked the UFC for letting go of Ngannou, but the promotion’s experience with the Cameroonian fighter has since underscored the risks of signing high-profile athletes without a proven track record of commitment.

Ngannou’s current status as a free agent has raised questions about his future in combat sports. With a career that has already earned him millions, many wonder whether he will continue to fight or step away from the sport. His recent fight against Ferreira showed that he still has the skills to compete at a high level, but his ability to maintain a consistent schedule remains uncertain.

As the PFL moves forward, the organization will likely focus on signing athletes who can deliver both in the octagon and in promotional roles. Ngannou’s departure serves as a cautionary tale for promotions considering high-profile signings, emphasizing the need for both financial commitment and active involvement from athletes.

Meanwhile, fans are eager to see what comes next for Ngannou. Whether he returns to the cage or retires, his legacy in the sport will continue to be debated, especially as his career has crossed into both MMA and boxing, earning him a unique place in combat sports history.