In a surprising turn of events, former UFC heavyweight Francis Ngannou sent ripples through the MMA world by announcing his partnership with the PFL. This decision has sparked a flurry of reactions from the UFC community, with both fans and industry insiders expressing their thoughts on the matter.
Notably, the influential UFC commentator Joe Rogan has shared his views on Ngannou’s move during his podcast. Rogan expressed his disappointment, stating that he was ‘bummed’ by Ngannou’s choice to leave UFC. Rogan believes that this move may prevent fans from witnessing some of the most highly anticipated matches in UFC history.
On the latest edition of protect our parks featuring Marc Normand, Shane Gillis and Ari Shaffir the foursome discussed Ngannou’s career and recent developments.
He said: “That’s why I’m mad. I’m mad because I feel like we were deprived of one of the great fights in MMA, one of the most compelling fights in MMA.”
Considering that Ngannou has yet to get any boxing offers, Rogan believes that Ngannou made a terrible mistake by quitting the UFC.
He said: “Francis right now, it’s a big loss in my mind right now, Him going over the PFL. It really bums me out. I understand I’m happy he’s gonna get paid, and I’m happy he’s gonna get to box.”
“But I loved watching this guy fighting on UFC, he was a fu****g monster… And in boxing, it seems he doesn’t have any offer from either Tyson or Joshua. So that’s why I think he made a big mistake for leaving the UFC.”
Following Ngannou’s departure from UFC, Dana White addressed the situation and shared his thoughts on the matter. According to reports, White is not happy at all that one of the UFC’s top athletes left the organization.
Following the most recent event at UFC Vegas 73, White spoke out about Ngannou teaming up with PFL. He said: “Based on what I know about the deal, which is not much, it makes no sense to me, It’s just not what we do here.”
“It’s not what we do. Francis wants to take zero risks… You’re going to pay a guy not to fight for a year, and it’s already been like months. He’s fought three times in the last three years..”