PFL CEO John Martin has confirmed that discussions are underway for a major Francis Ngannou comeback fight against newly crowned heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov. With Ngannou inactive since his decisive win over Renan Ferreira in October 2024, Martin is optimistic that a matchup against the dominant Nemkov is the “ideal” scenario to bring “The Predator” back to the SmartCage for a monumental title clash.
“We’re talking to Francis about his return right now,” Martin stated in a recent interview. “Vadim Nemkov, after his incredible performance, is the perfect opponent. That’s the fight we want to make.” This potential bout would not only mark Ngannou’s highly anticipated return but would also crown an undisputed PFL Heavyweight Champion in what would be one of the biggest fights in the promotion’s history.
The Champion Emerges: Nemkov’s Dominant Title Win
The pathway for Ngannou’s return was forged at PFL Lyon, where former two-time Bellator champion Vadim Nemkov made a stunning PFL debut. Facing the formidable Renan Ferreira—the same man Ngannou defeated in his sole PFL appearance—Nemkov showcased his elite Sambo skills, securing a first-round submission victory to capture the PFL Heavyweight Championship.
Nemkov’s victory immediately established him as the division’s top fighter and the most credible challenger for Ngannou. Following the win, Nemkov publicly called for the fight, stating, “I have one more goal… I will be waiting for the legendary Francis Ngannou.” His well-rounded game, combining technical striking with world-class grappling, presents a unique and dangerous challenge that differs from the powerful strikers Ngannou typically faces.
Ngannou’s Road Back: Inactivity, Boxing, and Unfinished Business
Since his explosive PFL debut over a year ago, Ngannou’s combat sports focus has shifted to the boxing ring, where he faced Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua in high-profile, lucrative matches. While he hasn’t competed in MMA since October 2024, the desire to return and claim MMA gold has remained.
A fight against Nemkov represents the pinnacle of competition available to him outside the UFC. It serves as both a legacy-defining challenge against an undefeated champion and the fulfilment of the championship clause in his landmark PFL contract. For Ngannou, a victory would silence any doubters and solidify his status as the world’s top heavyweight across two sports.
Why This Fight is a PFL Priority
For PFL CEO John Martin, securing this fight is a strategic imperative. It represents the perfect convergence of several key factors:
- Competitive Integrity: It pits the promotion’s biggest star against its most accomplished and active champion, creating a legitimate super-fight.
- Narrative: The story writes itself: the legendary power puncher vs. the technically flawless champion.
- Global Spotlight: A Ngannou comeback fight of this magnitude would attract massive mainstream attention, elevating the PFL’s profile to new heights.
Martin has emphasised that the timing is right, the opponent is right, and the motivation is there for both fighters. The focus is now on finalising terms for what could be the most significant fight in PFL history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Francis Ngannou’s last MMA fight?
Ngannou’s last MMA fight was his PFL debut victory over Renan Ferreira in October 2024. He has been focused on boxing since then.
Who is Vadim Nemkov?
Nemkov is a former two-time Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion who recently moved to heavyweight. He won the PFL Heavyweight Championship by submitting Renan Ferreira in the first round at PFL Lyon.
What has PFL CEO John Martin said about the fight?
Martin has confirmed that active discussions are underway with Ngannou for his return and that Nemkov is the “ideal” and “perfect” opponent for that comeback fight.
Why is Nemkov a dangerous opponent for Ngannou?
Unlike many of Ngannou’s past foes, Nemkov is an elite grappler and submission artist with a technically sound striking game. This well-rounded skill set presents a unique stylistic challenge for “The Predator.”
When could the Ngannou vs. Nemkov fight happen?
While no date is set, the fight is being targeted for 2026. The timing depends on finalising Ngannou’s contract and scheduling, but it is the clear priority for the PFL’s upcoming heavyweight schedule.
