Opinion: Dana White’s Biggest Business Blunder, Letting Francis Ngannou Go, Will Cost the UFC Millions

Francis Ngannou just reminded the world why he is called ‘The Predator’. On October 28th, Ngannou fought the legendary heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury. What everybody expected to be a lopsided fight turned out to be the exact opposite. The former UFC champion was able to get the better of Fury in many instances. Moreover, the boxing debutant was also able to knock ‘The Gypsy King’ down in the third round. Although Fury won the fight via split decision, many fans have been questioning the authenticity of this decision.

According to countless fight enthusiasts, ‘The Predator’ was the clear winner of this fight. Looking forward, many opportunities have opened up for Ngannou after his tremendous boxing performance. Moreover, fans are now questioning UFC’s decision to part ways with the former heavyweight champ. Also, some feel that UFC CEO Dana White might have made a huge mistake by letting Ngannou go!

What exactly happened between UFC and Francis Ngannou?

Back in 2021, Ngannou won the UFC heavyweight title at UFC 260. However, he just made one title defense at UFC 270 before leaving the promotion. UFC CEO Dana White emphasized that they had offered Ngannou an impressive amount per fight, even surpassing the earnings of former UFC Heavyweight kingpin and WWE icon, Brock Lesnar. However, it soon became clear that money was only one part of the equation.

In an interview with Ariel Helwani on ‘The MMA Hour’, Ngannou revealed that his decision to leave the UFC was about more than just finances. He touched on a crucial aspect that had weighed on his mind: freedom. Further, the African fighter exposed the UFC’s practice of employing what he called “dirty games” to prevent fighters from becoming free agents.

These tactics also included limiting fighters’ individual sponsors. The Cameroonian fighter saw this as an encroachment on his freedom and called for the removal of this rule. When the UFC refused his requests, Ngannou made the bold decision to leave the promotion.

Francis Ngannou could have fought against Tyson Fury while being in the UFC

For more than a year, Francis Ngannou was talking about venturing into the world of boxing. He finally did it in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and he certainly shocked the world with his performance. Not only did the former UFC champ earn a lucrative amount of money, but his popularity also skyrocketed after his boxing debut.

Read More – How Much Money Did Francis Ngannou Possibly Make Against Tyson Fury?

Such a situation begs the question – Should UFC President Dana White have allowed Ngannou to enter the boxing ring during his time in the UFC? Back in 2017, Conor McGregor faced Floyd Mayweather while being under a UFC contract. The bout turned out to be one of the biggest boxing contests in recorded history.

Similarly, White could have given Francis Ngannou a green signal too! Moreover, the UFC could have also benefited from the grand event that Ngannou vs. Fury would have been. However, none of this happened, as the UFC CEO denied any such luxuries to Francis Ngannou.

Increased competition in the UFC heavyweight division

UFC’s heavyweight division is filled with talented and exciting fighters. From newcomers like Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich to veterans like Stipe Miocic, the locker room has immense potential. Further, UFC legend Jon Jones has also stepped into the same weight division.

Francis Ngannou’s presence in today’s UFC heavyweight division could have made things even better for the promotion. Moreover, fans were adamant on seeing ‘Bones’ face the ‘The Predator’ on the former’s UFC return. However, this fight fell through as the Cameroon-born left the UFC.

A super fight against Jon Jones, a trilogy fight against Stipe Miocic, or a slug fest against Sergei Pavlovich- the possibilities were countless! However, it is highly unlikely that the fans will see Ngannou back in the UFC.

Francis Ngannou – UFC’s key to enter the African market

Earlier this year, not only did Ngannou sign a deal with PFL, but he was also appointed as the chairman of PFL Africa. This strategic move by PFL aims to harness Ngannou’s immense star power and expertise in MMA to conquer the African market.

On the other hand, the UFC also continues its global expansion. However, Africa remains an untapped treasure trove for the pioneer MMA promotion. ‘The Predator’, as one of Africa’s shining stars in the MMA universe, could have been a pivotal figure in helping the UFC establish a stronger foothold in Africa.

His presence and influence could have acted as a catalyst for nurturing African talent. Further, it could have also generated substantial profits for the UFC. However, this opportunity slipped through the UFC’s fingers with Ngannou’s departure.

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Now, there are many options for Francis Ngannou. He can move ahead in boxing, or come back to MMA. What do you want to see him do? Comment down below.