By FCF Staff

After months of speculation regarding the future of Francis Ngannou, the Professional Fighters League has announced it’s signed the former UFC champ to an MMA contract.

The heavyweight star hasn’t fought since January, 2022, when he recorded a decision win over Ciryl Gane. Ngannou was unable to come to terms with the UFC on a new deal and has been exploring his options since.

On Tuesday, the PFL announced that the 36-year-old Ngannou has signed with the organization. According to a follow-up report from MMA Junkie, which cites the New York Post, the contract does not restrict Ngannou from boxing. The feared striker has repeatedly said he wants to compete in boxing.

🚨 BREAKING 🚨
“The Predator” @francis_ngannou is PFL bound!

He’s set to fight in the PFL’s PPV Superfight division https://t.co/Jal3clCZhW pic.twitter.com/5RRaG7oFwr

— PFL (@PFLMMA) May 16, 2023

Further, according to a report from John S. Nash, sources have informed Bloody Elbow that Ngannou’s PFL deal is only for two or three fights. The deal reportedly guarantees a “high seven-figure” purse for each fight, and that Ngannou’s opponents will be guaranteed a minimum salary of two million dollars. In addition, Ngannou will receive a share of the profits, and the promotion’s confirmed he will be an equity owner in and Chairman of PFL Africa.

Ngannou will be participating in the PFL’s Super Fight Division and not the promotion’s annual tournaments. The heavyweight is not expected, however, to make his PFL debut until 2024.

In a press release that was released to MMA Junkie, PFL CEO Peter Murray was quoted saying:

“The PFL is excited to announce its groundbreaking strategic partnership with Francis Ngannou, the greatest heavyweight MMA fighter in the world. Ngannou will anchor the PFL’s star-studded PPV Super Fight Division, serve on PFL’s Global Athlete Advisory Board, and will be Chairman and an equity owner in PFL Africa. Beyond working with Francis to advance the sport of MMA and scale PFL globally, I’m personally looking forward to supporting Francis in his commitment to fight for communities in Africa and around the world, inspired by his vision for the Francis Ngannou Foundation.”

Ngannou currently holds a record of 17-3, and he has won six straight fights.