Francis Ngannou reveals that Tyson Fury talk is overblown and that he could make a stunning UFC return in December, after undergoing surgery

UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou could return to the octagon for a spectacular fight in December.

After undergoing knee surgery two-months after his UFC victory over Ciryl Gane, the 34-year-old Cameroon-born Frenchman was expected to remain on the sidelines until early in 2023.

However, The Predator, who has been in extensive rehabilitation, has suggested that a return to the cage might be sooner than initially thought.

He told TMZ: "It's getting better. It's been quite good. Although it wasn't easy, we are making progress.

It's only been three months so it's still physical therapy. If all goes well, I'll be ready before the end of this year. It'll take nine months.

"So let's just say that it is late December or early next.

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Ngannou's contract as the premier promotion in mixed martial arts is due to expire this summer. The UFC has failed to offer him a new deal.

Ngannou refused to sign a new contract unless there is a boxing match against Tyson Fury, the unified heavyweight champion.

However, the possibility of a mixed boxing match against The Gypsy King seems to have faded from the mind of this knockout artist.

He said, "You know, for now, let's fight for our situation and get it all sorted out."

"And then, when I will be near the return, we'll see where the landscape at because there are many things that can happen."

Ngannou is not giving up on a contract extension. However, UFC president Dana White refuses to rule out the possibility that both parties could reach an agreement.

The Underground was told by the veteran promoter: "It's still the same as it ever was, there's no lost cause."

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"It's all business, and we'll watch how it turns out."

"We have Francis with his knee right now, we're waiting for that, gonna wait to see how long that takes."