TLDR
- Francis Ngannou left PFL to sign with MVP MMA and will fight Philippe Lins on Netflix
- Ngannou claims the UFC used a potential Jon Jones fight as leverage during contract negotiations
- The former heavyweight champion says the Jones matchup was never a serious offer
- Ngannou still wants to fight Jon Jones before his career ends
- He emphasizes wanting fair contracts and control over his career decisions
Sources: ESPN MMA | Funstar Horizon | MMA Junkie | Sherdog
Francis Ngannou has left PFL and signed with MVP MMA, where he will make his promotional debut against Philippe Lins on Netflix. In a recent interview with ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto, the former UFC heavyweight champion opened up about his career moves and unfinished business.
Ngannou revealed that the long-discussed fight with Jon Jones was never a serious offer from the UFC. He said the promotion used the potential matchup as leverage during contract negotiations when he was still their heavyweight champion.
The UFC dangled the Jones fight to keep Ngannou in line, but the organization was unwilling to grant him the freedom to pursue boxing opportunities. This became a breaking point in his relationship with the UFC.
👀💥 Francis Ngannou says he still wants to fight Jon Jones before he retires from MMA.
“Jon Jones is the fight I really want to have before my retirement, but I would still fight anybody. I don’t care.”
(via @espnmma) pic.twitter.com/eYnv9fBooV
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) April 22, 2026
Leaving PFL and Joining MVP MMA
Ngannou’s departure from PFL marks another major career shift for the heavyweight star. He described his move to MVP MMA as betting on himself and seeking fair treatment in contract negotiations.
He told ESPN that he is not against signing contracts, but he wants to review them for fairness first. “Bring me the contract, I’ll look at it, and if it’s fair, I’ll sign,” Ngannou explained.
His upcoming fight against Philippe Lins will stream on Netflix as part of MVP MMA’s growing platform. Ngannou said he is in the best position of his life heading into this bout.
Jon Jones Fight Still a Dream
Despite revealing the UFC’s negotiation tactics, Ngannou still expresses strong interest in fighting Jon Jones. He told Okamoto that he would like to face Jones before his career ends.
Ngannou discussed his last fight, which he dedicated to honoring his son. He had a quiet 2025 but says he is now in good condition and ready to return to action.
The interview also touched on Jake Paul, though Ngannou did not elaborate on any potential matchup with the social media star turned boxer. He previously stated he believes he would beat Paul in any competition.
Ngannou said he considers contracts a matter of mutual respect rather than special treatment. He wants equitable compensation and control over his career decisions.
When asked if he ever considered reaching out to the UFC to make a deal happen, Ngannou indicated he is focused on his current path. He appears committed to his new direction with MVP MMA.
The fight against Philippe Lins represents a fresh start for Ngannou on a major streaming platform. Netflix’s entry into live combat sports provides fighters with new opportunities outside traditional promotions.
Ngannou’s willingness to leave established organizations like the UFC and PFL shows his commitment to finding the right deal. He has consistently prioritized fairness and flexibility over staying with the biggest names in MMA.
The Jon Jones matchup remains one of the most requested fights among MMA fans. Ngannou’s revelation that it was never a real offer adds context to why the bout never materialized during his UFC tenure.
Ngannou will face Philippe Lins as part of MVP MMA’s card streaming on Netflix, with the exact date to be announced.
