In a spectacular showcase at the PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants event on October 20, Francis Ngannou proved why he’s one of the most feared heavyweights in the world, as he dominated Renan Ferreira with a devastating first-round knockout to claim the PFL Heavyweight Championship.
Ngannou’s Explosive Comeback
After leaving the UFC as its Heavyweight Champion in 2022, Ngannou made waves by signing with PFL, one of MMA’s premier promotions. The Cameroonian powerhouse entered the fight with a 17-3 record, looking to add another title to his illustrious career. On the other side of the cage stood Renan Ferreira, a highly skilled Brazilian fighter with a strong record of 16-3. Despite Ferreira’s pedigree, Ngannou was widely favored, and he quickly proved why.
A Knockout in 1 Minute
The action began at a breakneck pace. In under one minute, Ngannou took Ferreira to the mat with a powerful takedown, establishing his dominance right from the start. Ferreira attempted to scramble, but Ngannou was relentless, maintaining control and landing a series of crushing punches. The former UFC champ’s explosive speed and brute strength were on full display as Ferreira struggled to mount any meaningful defense.
As the fight progressed, it became clear that Ngannou was in complete control. With just 3:32 left in round 1, the referee had no choice but to stop the fight, awarding Ngannou the first-round knockout victory and crowning him the new PFL Heavyweight Champion.
The Path to Glory
This victory marked a defining moment in Ngannou’s career. Not only did he secure the PFL Heavyweight Championship, but he also sent a message to the entire heavyweight division: Francis Ngannou is a force to be reckoned with. His knockout power, combined with his ability to control the fight, makes him one of the most dangerous men in MMA.
With this win, Ngannou now stands as one of the most dominant heavyweights in the sport today, and the PFL has found itself with a true champion. Whether it’s PFL, UFC, or any other major organization, Francis Ngannou will undoubtedly remain a fixture in the fight world for years to come.
The Future of PFL Heavyweight Division
While Ferreira showed heart and skill, he was simply no match for the speed, power, and tactical prowess of Ngannou. As Ngannou celebrates his victory, the future of the PFL Heavyweight division looks bright, with the new champion leading the charge into 2024 and beyond.