Cameroonian mixed martial arts icon Francis Ngannou has once again set the combat sports world buzzing after revealing that his contract with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is nearing its end—opening the door to blockbuster possibilities in 2026.
Speaking on the popular Ariel Helwani Show, the former UFC heavyweight champion said his deal with the PFL “ends soon,” adding that “everything can happen.”
The comment has fuelled speculation about potential superfights, including long-awaited showdowns against UFC legend Jon Jones and former boxing champion Deontay Wilder.
One Fight Left, Future Wide Open
Ngannou, 39, joined the PFL in 2023 but has fought only once under the promotion, delivering a thunderous knockout against Renan Ferreira last year.
“I’m getting very close with the PFL contract, so they have to give me a fight,” he told Helwani.
PFL CEO John Martin later confirmed that Ngannou has one fight remaining on his contract before negotiations on his future begin in earnest.
Ngannou did not disclose the exact date the deal ends but hinted he could be a free agent by July 4, 2026, when the UFC will host its historic event at the White House in Washington D.C.
Possible Showdowns Looming
When asked about finally facing Jon Jones, Ngannou did not dismiss the possibility but warned fans not to get ahead of themselves.
“That could happen,” he said. “But I wouldn’t be that excited—because that fight is so complicated.”
He also mentioned interest in former WBC boxing champion Deontay Wilder, who has previously expressed readiness to meet Ngannou in the ring.
History with UFC Still Unsettled
Ngannou’s departure from the UFC in January 2023 followed escalating tensions with UFC President Dana White. Ngannou said he left for “freedom” rather than money, criticizing restrictive UFC contractual conditions.
Last month, White attempted to reignite the controversy, calling Ngannou a “bad guy” and alleging that the Cameroonian once pushed him in his office and grabbed another UFC official by the shirt during a dispute over a post-fight bonus.
Ngannou dismissed the accusations calmly:
“Why am I not surprised? If Dana says this, then I’m not here to defend myself. If he’s at peace with it, it’s okay. I just want peace. I’m getting old—I have less energy for drama.”
Return to PFL Still Possible
Despite the uncertainty, Ngannou said he is still open to re-signing with the PFL, under one condition:
“First I need a fight. I don’t want to stay out this long. But if there is a fight, why not?”
Ngannou has kept active through two high-profile boxing bouts—though both ended in defeats against British heavyweights Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
What’s Next for “The Predator”?
With a career spanning MMA dominance and a growing boxing presence, Ngannou remains one of Cameroon’s and Africa’s greatest sporting exports. As the countdown to his contract’s expiration ticks on, fans worldwide are watching closely.
Whether it’s a return to UFC, a renewed pact with PFL, a boxing rematch, or a surprise new partnership, 2026 may mark the biggest chapter yet in the story of The Predator.
One thing is certain: Francis Ngannou’s next move will shake the combat sports world—and Cameroon will be watching with pride.
