Francis Ngannou’s UFC Return “Not Happening,” Says Trainer Dewey Cooper

The door has officially closed on Francis Ngannou’s potential UFC comeback, according to his longtime trainer Dewey Cooper. In a statement that’s bound to disappoint fans hoping for a reunion, Cooper has emphatically ruled out any possibility of the former heavyweight champion returning to the promotion that helped make him a star.

Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images

The Final Verdict on Ngannou’s UFC Future

I’ve been following Ngannou’s career since his meteoric rise through the UFC ranks, and this latest development feels like the definitive end to a chapter that once seemed destined for a different conclusion. Cooper, who has been in Ngannou’s corner through his biggest battles, didn’t mince words when addressing the speculation about “The Predator” potentially returning to the UFC.

“There is absolutely zero chance Francis returns to the UFC,” Cooper stated firmly in a recent interview. “That chapter is closed, and we’ve moved on to bigger opportunities that align with Francis’s vision for his career and legacy.”

Why Ngannou Left the UFC in the First Place

For those who might have forgotten, Ngannou parted ways with the UFC in early 2023 after a contract dispute that centered around fighter pay, independent sponsorship opportunities, and greater promotional freedom. As the reigning heavyweight champion at the time, his departure sent shockwaves through the MMA world.

The Cameroonian powerhouse walked away from a reported $8 million offer from the UFC to instead sign with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in a groundbreaking deal that included equity in the company and the freedom to pursue boxing matches – something the UFC wouldn’t allow.

Ngannou’s Post-UFC Journey

Since leaving the UFC, Ngannou hasn’t exactly been sitting idle. His boxing debut against Tyson Fury in October 2023 shocked the combat sports world when he knocked down the heavyweight boxing champion, despite ultimately losing a controversial split decision that many observers felt he deserved to win.

His follow-up bout against Anthony Joshua didn’t go as planned, but his venture into boxing has reportedly earned him more money in two fights than his entire UFC career – validating his decision to leave from a financial perspective.

“Francis is building something much bigger than just fighting in the UFC. He’s creating a legacy that spans multiple combat sports while standing up for what he believes fighters deserve,” Cooper explained.

What This Means for the UFC Heavyweight Division

With Ngannou definitively out of the picture, the UFC heavyweight landscape continues to evolve without its most intimidating figure. The division is currently ruled by Jon Jones, with interim champion Tom Aspinall waiting in the wings for his shot at unification.

You have to wonder what could have been if Ngannou had stayed – particularly the dream matchup with Jones that fans had clamored for. It’s a fight that will now join the long list of great MMA matchups that never materialized.

What’s Next for The Predator?

According to Cooper, Ngannou is focused on his upcoming PFL debut, which is expected to take place later this year. The heavyweight star is also rumored to be considering another boxing match, with several high-profile opponents allegedly in discussions.

“Francis is in a position now where he makes his own decisions about his career. He’s not just a fighter anymore – he’s a business, a brand, and an advocate for fighter rights,” Cooper added.

Beyond competition, Ngannou continues to expand his charitable foundation in Cameroon, building training facilities and creating opportunities for young people in his homeland.

The Bigger Picture: Fighter Independence

Ngannou’s stance against returning to the UFC represents something larger than just one fighter’s career choice. He’s become a symbol of fighter independence in a sport where athletes have historically had limited leverage.

His success outside the UFC has inspired other fighters to consider their options more carefully and demand better treatment from promotions. Whether this leads to lasting change in fighter pay and conditions remains to be seen, but Ngannou has certainly helped shift the conversation.

Fan Reactions

The news has sparked mixed reactions among MMA fans. While many support Ngannou’s decision to chart his own path, others can’t help but feel disappointed that we’ll never see him compete against the UFC’s elite heavyweights again.

One thing’s for certain – wherever Ngannou goes next, the combat sports world will be watching closely. His journey from the sand mines of Cameroon to global superstardom continues to be one of the most compelling stories in sports.

What Do You Think?

Are you disappointed that we’ll never see Ngannou back in the UFC, or do you support his decision to forge his own path? Should more fighters follow in his footsteps? Let us know in the comments!

Source: FightbookMMA