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Francis Ngannou's career is in jeopardy. At least, that's what the pay-per-view sales figures for his most recent fight suggest. The Predator's first venture with the PFL was far from a success, putting the company's plans with its new star into question.
Ngannou made a big comeback to mixed martial arts after a two-year absence. The heavyweight champion's last fight in MMA was his knockout win over Ciryl Gane at UFC 270.
Following an unfriendly split from the UFC and its CEO Dana White, Ngannou decided to try his hand at boxing. His first attempt resulted in a close split decision loss to world champion Tyson Fury. His second fight ended in a resounding knockout in two rounds at the hands of Anthony Joshua.
Despite the two losses, the Predator's popularity skyrocketed. This made the management of the Professional Fighting League (PFL) think that the first card headlined by Ngannou would be a huge success, but it was not.
The poor sales of Ngannou and the PFL
Ngannou's return to MMA to face Renan Ferreira, now under the PFL label, dominated the headlines of the specialized press for weeks. However, when the moment of truth came, the so-called Battle of the Giantsbarely reached 10,000 PPV purchases.
The fight ended with a resounding victory for Ngannou. The Predator had no problems knocking out Ferreira at 3:32 minutes of the first round to win the PFL heavyweight belt.
Despite Ngannou's excellent showing, poor pay-per-view sales have analysts questioning the Cameroonian fighter's future with the PFL.
PFL's massive investment
PFL Chairman Donn Davis confirmed that the promotion had invested more than $20 million in the Battle of the Giants. The sales figures make it highly unlikely that the PFL has recouped the investment, which will make them seriously consider their deal with Ngannou.
Fans expected big things from the former champion after his departure from the UFC. However, the recent financial setback is a clear sign that the 38-year-old fighter faces an uphill road to return to the top of popularity.