Francis Ngannou responds to Dana White ruling out UFC return

UFC President Dana White has ruled out a potential return for former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, labeling him a ‘bad guy’ and stating he no longer wishes to do business with him. During an appearance on Nightcap, White admitted he actively wanted Ngannou to lose his title defense against Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 in early 2022.

Ngannou responded to these comments on social media, characterizing his departure from the organization as the result of a long and costly legal struggle. He accused White of doing everything in his power to prevent him from gaining his freedom, noting that he spent over three years and significant resources on legal fees to secure an escape plan. Ngannou told White, ‘You have to take that loss; it is irreversible.’

Since leaving the UFC, Ngannou has participated in high-profile boxing matches against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua before returning to MMA. The heavyweight division remains in transition following Ngannou's exit.