Francis Ngannou hasn’t competed in a mixed martial arts (MMA) bout in nearly three years, but the former UFC heavyweight king is as confident as ever heading into his return fight later tonight (Sat., Oct. 19, 2024) at PFL: Battle of the Giants live on ESPN+ pay-per-view (PPV) from inside The Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
“Predator” has been testing his luck against the best heavyweight boxers in the world over the past 12 months. The results have varied, but it has given Ngannou the opportunity to make life-changing money and create even more appeal surrounding his long-awaited PFL debut this weekend in Saudi Arabia.
On Friday, Ngannou stepped on stage for ceremonial weigh ins and one last faceoff with Saturday’s main event opponent, PFL 2023 heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira. Ngannou is a massive specimen in the heavyweight division, but Ferreira’s incredible size still made “Predator” look small. That made for an interesting staredown as the two heavyweights jostled for head space (see HERE).
After the final faceoff, both fighters were interviewed and asked to give their thoughts on Saturday’s impending heavyweight clash. Ngannou, who still considers himself the No. 1 heavyweight fighter in MMA today, reminded Ferreira who the king is entering PFL: Battle of the Giants.
“Who’s the king Renan?” asked Ngannou (shown in the above video player).
“I’m the king,” he said before Ferrereira could respond. “Tomorrow you’re gonna find out.”
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