A potential return to the UFC for Francis Ngannou is not ruled out.
It has been over three years since Francis Ngannou last competed in the octagon and two years since he left as a free agent to join the PFL. During this period, he has only fought once, defeating Renan Ferreira by knockout in October 2024, and has largely remained out of the spotlight. More recently, he was involved in a tragic motorcycle accident in his native Cameroon which resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl.
It remains uncertain when or if the 38-year-old Ngannou will compete again, but his coach, Eric Nicksick, believes returning to the UFC could be a future option.
Speaking to Home of Fight, Nicksick mentioned Ngannou`s interest in a fight with Deontay Wilder but also highlighted the current state of the heavyweight division, describing it as `in shambles.` He sees numerous opportunities for Francis, not only within the UFC but elsewhere. Nicksick suggested that Ngannou could help fill the star power void currently affecting the UFC`s heavyweight ranks.
He expressed a desire to see the relationship between Ngannou and the UFC mended, allowing him to compete there again, stating, “I think enough time has passed. I would love to see somehow, someway that they can mend these fences and get back in competing in the UFC.”
Ngannou`s departure from the UFC was under difficult circumstances, leaving as the reigning heavyweight champion. His final fight for the promotion was a successful title defense against Ciryl Gane via decision. This was followed by lengthy contract discussions with the UFC, ultimately leading to Ngannou becoming an unrestricted free agent in January 2023.
Despite UFC CEO Dana White`s public criticisms of Ngannou, Coach Nicksick is confident that both parties can set aside their disagreements for business reasons.
Nicksick stated he is “100 percent” sure this is possible, viewing it primarily as a business matter rather than an ego clash, at least from Francis`s perspective. He explained that Ngannou, acting as an independent contractor, seeks the best compensation for his services and wants the freedom to pursue opportunities like boxing without restrictions. Having proven his ability to earn significant income elsewhere, Nicksick believes Francis`s current motivation is rooted in competition, and he recognizes that the highest level of competition is found in the UFC.
Ngannou`s six years in the UFC were marked by numerous highlights, including some of the most devastating knockouts in MMA history, with significant victories over fighters like Ciril Gane, Stipe Miocic, Alistair Overeem, Junior dos Santos, Cain Velasquez, Curtis Blaydes, and Andrei Arlovski.
Nicksick believes an Ngannou return would benefit both Francis and the heavyweight division, which he feels has become stagnant due to the inactivity of undisputed champion Jon Jones and the sidelined interim champion Tom Aspinall.
Nicksick considers Dana White a shrewd businessman who prioritizes company interests over personal ego. He suggests that White is level-headed enough to overlook past issues if a future collaboration proves beneficial, asking, “Why not explore those options?”
Highlighting the current state of affairs, Nicksick pointed out Tom Aspinall holding an interim title for nearly 600 days. While not claiming Francis is the sole solution, he argues that bringing back a fighter like Ngannou would significantly boost the division`s value, help move things forward, allow both parties to profit, and potentially mend fences: “Let bygones be bygones, everybody’s making money, everybody’s happy, but it gets things moving.”
Subsequently, Jon Jones commented on Nicksick`s remarks via Twitter.
Jones wrote, expressing interest in the potential matchup: “I’m hearing Francis Ngannou is still interested. Now we’re talking. That’s a real superfight. A clash of champions, not just hype. He held the UFC belt, I`ve defended mine for over a decade. Two kings from different roads. Not just one legend facing a mouth that`s hot right now, but two real legacies colliding. That’s the kind of fight that actually adds something special to my story. At least from my point of view.”
