Dana White Rules Out Francis Ngannou's UFC Return

UFC CEO Dana White has definitively ruled out any future business dealings with former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, effectively ending the possibility of his return to the organization. Ngannou parted ways with the UFC in January 2023 after a prolonged dispute with White regarding his future, which resulted in the heavyweight title being stripped from him.

During an appearance on Nightcap, White referred to Ngannou as being on his "Oscar De La Hoya list," expressing his unwillingness to engage with individuals he considers "bad guys." Ngannou subsequently joined the Professional Fighters League (PFL), where he not only competed but also took on the role of chairman of PFL Africa. However, he only fought once for the PFL, defeating Renan Ferreira in 2024, before leaving the organization in March 2026.

Ngannou has since transitioned to boxing, facing former heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. The strained relationship between Ngannou and White has made a UFC return unlikely.