UFC president Dana White spoke out about the future career of the promotion's heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, who refused to sign a new contract.
[Francis] feels in a good position where he could fight weaker opponents and make more money. So let’s let him do it. We are going to release (Francis Ngannou) from his contract. We are giving up the right to match. He can go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants. This is what it is.
Dana White
In his last fight, which took place in January 2022 at UFC 270, Ngannou defeated Ciryl Gane by unanimous decision. In March 2021, at UFC 260, Francis knocked out Stipe Miocic in the second round.
Ngannou made his UFC debut under the banner in December 2015 with a fight against Luis Enrique. That confrontation ended with Francis winning by knockout in the second round. The 36-year-old Ngannou has 17 wins and three losses under his belt.