MMA/ Public dispute erupts between Francis Ngannou and PFL leadership over African event
Tensions have surfaced between Francis Ngannou and PFL Chairman Donn Davis following the Cameroonian fighter’s absence from the inaugural PFL Africa event in South Africa on August 9th. Davis openly expressed disappointment, stating, “I’m not going to hide it. I expected him. We worked for two years on this.”
Ngannou, who serves as PFL Africa’s chairman, responded sharply on the Hariel Helwani Show, criticizing Davis for airing the issue publicly. “This isn’t something he should have spoken about openly,” Ngannou stated.
He revealed his absence was a form of protest, disagreeing with the event’s structure, which he felt resembled a “undercard” rather than a premier showcase. “I hoped PFL Africa would have its moment of glory. It wasn’t my decision; I wasn’t in agreement,” he explained.
The conflict highlights growing friction since Ngannou’s high-profile 2023 signing, which was touted to grant him unprecedented freedom and control.
Just two years into the partnership, this public disagreement raises questions about the future of his role within the organization and the direction of PFL’s expansion into Africa.
