The Professional Fighters League has officially ended its agreement with heavyweight fighter Francis Ngannou.
On Friday the promotion confirmed that Ngannou is no longer under contract. The announcement means the well known heavyweight can now negotiate with other organizations or focus on boxing if he chooses.
The promotion issued a public message regarding the move.
“The Professional Fighters League has made the decision to part ways with Francis Ngannou. We have great respect for Francis as both an athlete and a person, and we wish him success in the next chapter of his combat sports career. The PFL remains focused on recruiting and signing the best athletes in the sport while continuing to deliver world-class competition for fans around the globe.”
Deal that began in 2023 comes to an end
Ngannou joined the Professional Fighters League in May 2023 shortly after leaving the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
His exit from the UFC had created major discussion in the sport. The Cameroonian heavyweight walked away during contract negotiations even though he had not been defeated for the title inside the cage. In January 2023 he became a free agent and soon signed a new agreement with PFL.
The move was seen as a significant moment for the league because Ngannou was one of the biggest stars in the heavyweight division.
Only one fight inside the PFL cage
Although the signing drew attention, Ngannou competed just once for the organization.
He stepped into the cage in October 2024 against Brazilian heavyweight Renan Ferreira. The fight ended quickly when Ngannou stopped Ferreira with a first round knockout.
The result added another victory to his record and continued a long winning run in mixed martial arts.
One unique feature of Ngannou’s contract allowed him to pursue boxing matches outside MMA.
That opportunity led to major bouts against world heavyweight champions. He faced Tyson Fury in a high profile boxing event that attracted global attention. Later he stepped into the ring with Anthony Joshua.
His most recent appearance came in March 2024 when Joshua scored a knockout victory in their boxing contest.
BREAKING: The Professional Fighters League has made the decision to part ways with Francis Ngannou. pic.twitter.com/aK2Di1DCZ5
— PFL (@PFLMMA) March 6, 2026
Ngannou experienced difficult moments outside sports during the past year.
In 2024 his son Kobe passed away, a tragedy that deeply affected the fighter and led to time away from competition.
Later that year he was involved in a motorcycle accident in Cameroon that resulted in the death of a 17 year old girl. The situation added further challenges during an already painful period of his life.
At 39 years old, Ngannou now returns to free agency.
The powerful heavyweight is currently on a seven fight winning streak in mixed martial arts and still remains one of the most recognized fighters in combat sports. Because of his status, several paths remain open.
He could sign with another MMA promotion, arrange additional boxing matches, or continue competing in both sports depending on the opportunities that appear next.
Whatever direction he chooses, Ngannou’s next move will likely draw strong interest across the fight world.
