After nearly three years away from MMA, Francis Ngannou made a powerful return this past weekend, facing Brazilian giant Renan Ferreira in the PFL main event. Despite the size disadvantage, Ngannou delivered a dominant performance that led to a controversial late stoppage. Concerned about unnecessary damage to his opponent, Ngannou criticized the referee’s decision to let the fight continue, stating that the bout should have been stopped sooner. Ngannou emphasized that he wanted to win but avoid inflicting excessive harm.

The stoppage drew attention from fans, worried about Ferreira’s safety, and UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones even praised Ngannou for his performance. Ngannou responded to Jones’s support, calling him a “class act.”

As Jones prepares for his UFC 309 title defense against Stipe Miocic, Ngannou remains hopeful for a future super-fight with him, despite UFC’s reluctance to co-promote with PFL.