Deontay Wilder in Talks with Francis Ngannou for Never-Before-Seen Fight

Ngannou's Move to the Professional Fighters League

Francis Ngannou recently left the UFC to sign with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), which has given him the opportunity to pursue boxing as well. This move has opened the door for a potential fight with Deontay Wilder.

Ngannou's Previous Negotiations with Wilder

Prior to his bout with Tyson Fury, Ngannou was in talks with Deontay Wilder for a potential fight. However, he ultimately decided to face Fury in a crossover clash in Saudi Arabia.

Possible Rematch with Fury

Despite losing to Fury by split decision, Ngannou wants to wait for a rematch after Fury's upcoming undisputed showdown with Oleksandr Usyk. This gives Ngannou the opportunity to return to MMA in his next fight and debut in the PFL.

Potential Mixed-Rules Bout

PFL CEO Peter Murray has named Wilder as a possible opponent for Ngannou and confirmed ongoing talks with the American boxer. Murray has even teased the possibility of a mixed-rules bout, which would be a first in combat sports.

Wilder's Upcoming Fight and Potential Showdown with Joshua

Before any potential fight with Ngannou, Wilder is set to face Joseph Parker in Saudi Arabia on December 23. Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua is also in action that night, with hopes of building towards a blockbuster matchup against Wilder in the future.

PFL's Goal for Ngannou's Next Fight

Despite Ngannou's recent boxing ventures, PFL CEO Peter Murray believes that a fight with Wilder is still likely to happen. He stated that their goal is to make the Ngannou-Wilder matchup a reality.