Francis Ngannou’s PFL Debut: 2024 Return to MMA and What to Expect

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Francis Ngannou is back, and the MMA world is buzzing with anticipation. Ngannou steps back into the cage this weekend, but not for the UFC. Instead, he’s making his PFL debut in what promises to be a thrilling event for fans everywhere. Known for his massive power and a story that captured the hearts of fans worldwide, Ngannou is one of the most exciting heavyweights ever to grace the sport.

But what does his return mean, and how does he stack up against his upcoming opponent, Renan Ferreira? The hosts of Ringside Report MMA, Dave Simon and AJ D’Alesio, had much to say about Ngannou’s PFL debut and the UFC Fight Night featuring Anthony Hernandez vs. André Pereira. Let’s break down their thoughts and predictions.

Ngannou’s Big Return to MMA

After a brief stint in boxing, Francis Ngannou is ready to prove himself again in mixed martial arts. It’s been a rollercoaster year for the former UFC heavyweight champion. After leaving the UFC due to contract disagreements, Ngannou decided to try his hand at boxing, facing top-tier opponents but ultimately finding himself knocked out earlier this year. Now, he wants to reclaim his dominance in MMA, and his next fight will be in the PFL (Professional Fighters League).

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AJ D’Alesio believes Ngannou still has what it takes: “I think Ngannou is going to make a big name for himself in PFL. He wants to put that boxing knockout behind him and show everyone he’s still the baddest man on the planet.” He emphasized Ngannou’s power, noting that even though his opponent, Renan Ferreira, is dangerous with jiu-jitsu skills and athleticism, Ngannou’s knockout power is different.

However, Dave Simon wasn’t as optimistic. He pointed out some potential issues: “Ngannou’s 38 now, and that knockout earlier this year wasn’t easy to bounce back from. He’s had two boxing fights and a tough concussion—he’s not the same fighter he was two years ago.” Dave expressed concerns about Ngannou’s current condition and how that might impact his performance, especially against a competitor like Ferreira, who’s still very much in his prime.

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Despite their differences in opinions, both hosts agreed that the fight is a high-stakes return for Ngannou. AJ summed it up best: “It’s all or nothing for Francis. If he wins, he’s a star. If he loses, it’s a hard road back.”

What'S Next For Ngannou
Francis Ngannou After Defeating Cyril Gane at UFC 270

Renan Ferreira: A Dangerous Opponent

Renan Ferreira isn’t just another opponent for Ngannou; he’s a real threat. At 34, Ferreira is not only younger but also a fierce striker and a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. Dave pointed out that Ferreira has been active and competing in MMA while Ngannou’s attention was divided by his boxing venture. “Renan Ferreira knocked out Ryan Bader in just 21 seconds—he’s on a different level right now,” Dave noted.

AJ was confident in Ngannou’s conditioning, pointing out how his time in boxing could have sharpened his striking even more. “His boxing experience has made him more dangerous on his feet,” AJ said. He highlighted Ngannou’s impressive durability, noting that keeping someone like Francis down takes a lot even after suffering a knockout.

Francis Ngannou is back in MMA, making his highly anticipated debut in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) against reigning PFL heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira on October 19. After a nearly two-year hiatus, during which he pursued a boxing career, Ngannou returns to the cage, seeking to reclaim his dominance in the heavyweight division. Ferreira, known for his knockout power and athleticism, presents a formidable challenge. This bout is part of the PFL’s Super Fights event, which also features Cris Cyborg vs. Larissa Pacheco, and has significant implications for the heavyweight rankings and Ngannou’s legacy. If Ngannou succeeds, it could set up a compelling potential matchup against UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones, further elevating the stakes in the MMA world.

This fight will be a real test of whether Ngannou’s experience in boxing has helped or hindered him in the MMA cage. Ferreira’s game plan will likely involve mixing his striking with takedown attempts to challenge Ngannou’s grappling, while Ngannou will look to keep the fight standing and use his heavy hands to finish it early.

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UFC Fight Night: Hernandez vs. Pereira

The UFC is also back this weekend, with a Fight Night headliner featuring Anthony Hernandez against André Pereira. Both fighters are riding winning streaks and are ranked 13th and 14th in the middleweight division. While it might not seem like the biggest card of the year, this fight has much potential to deliver fireworks.

AJ was enthusiastic about the matchup: “These guys are exciting! Pereira’s been on an eight-fight win streak, and Hernandez has five in a row. They both come to fight, and Pereira’s earned performance bonuses in his last three outings. These kinds of fights sneak up on you—two hungry fighters just going for it.”

Dave was less convinced: “It’s the number 13 versus the number 14 guy in the middleweight division. How is that a main event? I’m just saying it’s not the biggest fight the UFC could put on. But I’ll still watch because these guys bring it every time.”

The co-main event features Rob Font vs. Kyler Phillips, which AJ thinks will be another exciting battle. Font and Phillips have styles that make for entertaining fights, and this card could surprise viewers with its action level. AJ pointed out that Phillips, well-known for his flashy, unpredictable moves, could create memorable moments. “Kyler Phillips is always looking for the finish. He’s exciting and has a style that’s perfect for making highlights.”

Ufc Fight Night Hernandez Vs. Pereira Predictions
Francis Ngannou's PFL Debut: 2024 Return to MMA and What to Expect 4

Key Takeaways

  • Ngannou’s Return: Francis Ngannou is back in MMA, and it will be an exciting, make-or-break moment for him in the PFL against Renan Ferreira. Ngannou has to prove that he’s still a threat in the heavyweight division.
  • Ferreira’s Challenge: Renan Ferreira is no easy fight, and Ngannou’s age and recent losses are concerns. But if Ngannou can land his big right hand, it could be all over.
  • UFC Fight Night: Anthony Hernandez and André Pereira might not be household names yet, but this weekend’s UFC Fight Night could help change that. Expect a solid fight between two athletes on the rise.

Conclusion

This weekend offers a lot for MMA fans. Whether you’re excited to see Francis Ngannou’s return to MMA with the PFL or looking forward to UFC Fight Night with Hernandez vs. Pereira, there’s plenty of action on the horizon. Ngannou’s fight could define his career moving forward—either as a triumphant return or a harsh reminder of how tough the sport can be. Meanwhile, the UFC continues to build up its next generation of stars, and Hernandez and Pereira have a chance to make their mark.

Will Ngannou prove the doubters wrong, or will Ferreira spoil his comeback? And who will come out on top at UFC Fight Night? One thing’s for sure: it will be an action-packed weekend for fight fans.