UFC President Dana White told Francis Ngannou that he is free to quit the promotion if it doesn't suit him.
For several months, the UFC and its heavyweight champion were at odds over a variety of issues, including Ngannou’s fight frequency.
UFC heavyweight champ Francis Ngannou was at odds with
Ngannou, 34 years old, has spoken out publicly and voiced his dissatisfaction with the UFC brass. They are happy to let him go once his contract expires.
White recently stated to ESPN, "Look, if we want you to be with us.
No problem if you don't wish to be with us. It's all okay.
"I believe his contract, and I am speculating, that he has time to stay with us after the fight if he wins.
"He'd probably have another fight."
White was involved in a verbal spat with Marquel Martin, Ngannou's manager. Marquel accused White of lying about plans to introduce an interim title.
He believes that the UFC's first African-born heavyweight champion is not getting the best advice from his team.
He stated, "These things happen. Sometimes it's not always easy to come to terms with people.
"When you are a fighter, it is important to know who you represent.
"I don’t believe he’s had the best representation."
Ngannou will be taking the UFC's pay per view calendar to the next year with a heavyweight title unification fight against Ciryl Gane, his former team-mate.
This fight will be headlined by UFC 270 in Anaheim (California) on January 22.
Ngannou, in an interview with Sports Illustrated said that he didn't recognize Gane's belt when defending his maiden title.
"I am the undisputed heavyweight champion. [Gane’s belt] is not legitimate. It is a substitute.
"The champion's presence renders the interim title null." "And I'm here."
Ngannou won the heavyweight title in March after a stunning KO of Stipe Miocic, a fan favourite at UFC 260.
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