Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion and current PFL superstar, is making headlines again – not for another knockout or boxing showdown – but for his coach’s bold claim: Ngannou is “100 percent open” to returning to the UFC. This revelation comes at a pivotal moment for the heavyweight division and raises questions about a long-teased super fight with Jon Jones.
Ngannou’s Coach: “We’re Open for That Conversation”
In a recent interview, Eric Nicksick, Ngannou’s head coach at Xtreme Couture, confirmed that the Cameroonian fighter is not shutting the door on a UFC comeback. “We’ve always kept communication open,” Nicksick said. “If the UFC wants to have that conversation, we’re all ears.”
This is a significant statement considering Ngannou’s publicized split from the UFC in early 2023 due to contract disputes. At the time, he walked away as the reigning champion – an unprecedented move that shook the MMA world.
Jon Jones Reacts: “That’s the Super Fight Everyone Wants”
Jon Jones, who currently holds the UFC heavyweight title, offered a measured but optimistic reaction to the news. Jones has long been linked to a potential mega-fight with Ngannou, and although tensions once ran high- with both fighters taking jabs at each other online – there now seems to be a mutual interest.
On social media, Jones hinted that he respects Ngannou’s career choices and would welcome the opportunity to finally settle the debate: who is the baddest man on the planet?
“If Francis wants to come back, I’m here,” Jones tweeted. “The fans deserve it.”
Why the Timing Makes Sense
Several factors suggest now is the perfect time to revisit Ngannou’s UFC future:
- UFC’s Saudi expansion: With Saudi Arabia pushing for high-profile UFC cards, including rumored billion-dollar investments, a Ngannou vs. Jones fight in the Middle East would be a financial and global spectacle.
- Ngannou’s return to MMA: After his high-profile boxing losses to Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, Ngannou recently returned to the PFL cage, defeating Renan Ferreira in brutal fashion. It reminded fans why he was once considered the scariest striker in MMA.
- PFL’s flexibility: Ngannou’s PFL deal is believed to include unique freedoms, including boxing bouts and potential co-promotion options. If both promotions agree, a UFC crossover event isn’t off the table.
The Stakes for the Heavyweight Division
A potential Ngannou return would immediately shake up the UFC heavyweight landscape. Right now:
- Jon Jones is sidelined due to injury but expected to return in late 2025.
- Tom Aspinall holds the interim heavyweight title and is calling for unification.
- Ciryl Gane, Sergei Pavlovich, and Jailton Almeida are all hunting for top billing.
Ngannou’s re-entry would likely leapfrog him into a title shot or a superfight with Jones. Either path would reshape the championship narrative.
Business, Ego, and the Path Ahead
Dana White has been skeptical about welcoming Ngannou back, particularly after public criticisms from both sides. But the UFC has also shown willingness to bury hatchets for big business (see: McGregor, Diaz, Lesnar).
Ngannou’s star power, especially in Africa and Europe, gives him unique leverage. Combine that with Jones’ legacy ambitions, and the business case is compelling.
Is It Really Going to Happen?
The MMA community has been teased before. But this time, the conversation feels different. Ngannou has explored other avenues, gained leverage, and remained relevant. His coach’s statement isn’t just speculation-it’s a signal.
If UFC, PFL, and the right financial backers align, we could be headed toward the most anticipated heavyweight bout in MMA history.
Pratiksha
Pratiksha is a writer specializing in WWE and UFC coverage, combining her expertise as a fitness professional with a passion for combat sports journalism. She focuses on delivering accurate, insightful, and timely content that keeps fans updated on the latest events, fighter profiles, and industry news.
