Chael Sonnen hints at twist in Francis Ngannou exit with cryptic tweet

Francis Ngannou being freed from his UFC contract and stripped of the heavyweight championship has become a hot topic of conversation ever since president Dana White announced the latest developments at the post-fight press conference of UFC Vegas 67.

Ngannou has been at the forefront of the fighter welfare crusade that challenges the UFC's unjust wage structure and lack of long-term health care. 'The Predator' wanted the option to pursue boxing bouts under his renewed UFC contract, but the organization evidently denied his request.

Dana White added that the company offered Ngannou multiple contracts that would have made him the highest-paid heavyweight in the organization's history. There has also been an apparent push for the narrative that Ngannou is seeking easier matches outside of the UFC for substantial financial rewards.

Chael Sonnen, however, alluded to a twist in the narrative about Francis Ngannou's departure. Sonnen feels that, contrary to widespread belief that Ngannou was stripped, the Cameroonian may have voluntarily relinquished his heavyweight title:

"Francis relinquished the title."

Check out the tweet below:

The UFC also announced the return of Jon Jones, who will now face Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title at UFC 285 on March 4, 2023, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Place your bets for the upcoming UFC Fight Night main card and earn $$$.

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Sean Strickland claims that it's "a shame" that Francis Ngannou will be departing from the UFC

Sean Strickland has come out in defense of Francis Ngannou for declining multiple revised UFC contracts and standing firm on his aspirations to compete inside the boxing ring.

Strickland served as a last-minute replacement for the injured Kelvin Gastelum, facing Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Vegas 67. Strickland bounced back to winning ways following a two-fight losing streak with a unanimous decision victory.

Sean Strickland, who trains with Francis Ngannou at the Xtreme Couture facility in Las Vegas, was taken aback by the Cameroonian's departure from the promotion. Strickland stated during the post-fight press conference:

"It's a damn shame to see Francis go. He's f**king iconic in the UFC. He's probably one of the greatest heavyweights we've ever had. It s**ks he parted ways but I hope him and Tyson Fury fight for a lot of f**king money....It s**ks that he leaves but if he can get that big money fight with Tyson... hats off to you Francis. Enjoy your go f**k yourself money."

Check out the clip below: