When Khamzat Chimaev criticized Francis Ngannou for money demands from UFC: "He has to appreciate everything"

In 2023, a heated debate erupted within the UFC community when reigning heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou decided to part ways with the organization after his contract expired. Ngannou's departure marked a significant turning point, as he became the first reigning champion to leave the UFC since B.J. Penn in 2004.

The decision to leave the UFC was not taken lightly by Ngannou, who had several demands that the organization was unable to meet. These demands included health insurance, the ability to have sponsorships for all UFC fighters, and the presence of a fighter advocate during contract negotiations.

Amidst the ongoing contract dispute, Khamzat Chimaev weighed in on the matter. In an interview with ESPN's Brett Okamoto, Chimaev expressed his disapproval of fighters who complained about fighter pay, specifically targeting Ngannou.

"I appreciate it, what Dana and UFC did for me, you know? A lot of guys talking about ‘UFC don’t give us good money’ and those things. Go back, and where they’ve been, one, two, three years ago? They don’t remember that, you know? I was homeless almost, you know? Lot of guys as well."

Chimaev went on to criticize Ngannou's demands, suggesting that the heavyweight champion should appreciate the opportunities he had been given:

"[Francis Ngannou] is talking about they don’t give him good money and all these things. And he was speaking about living outside before. Why don’t he do it right now? He has to appreciate everything that’s happened with him. He has to fight, fight, the money coming.” [H/t:MMA Mania]

Check out Khamzat Chimaev's comments on Francis Ngannou:

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Francis Ngannou set for PFL debut against Renan Ferreira

Francis Ngannou will finally make his long-awaited debut in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) on Oct. 19. Ngannou will face off against 2023 PFL heavyweight tournament winner Renan Ferreira in the main event of the PFL Super Fight event, which will take place at The Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Ngannou, who left the UFC in 2023 due to contract disputes, has been eagerly anticipated by PFL fans. Despite taking a detour into the boxing world with fights against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, Ngannou has remained committed to his return to MMA.

Ferreira, a dominant force in the PFL, has won four straight fights, including a victory over former Bellator champion Ryan Bader. The Brazilian will be looking to continue his momentum and solidify his status as one of the top heavyweights in the world.

The PFL Super Fight co-main event will feature a clash between former UFC featherweight champion Cris Cyborg and two-time PFL tournament winner Larissa Pacheco. Both fighters are coming off impressive victories and are expected to put on a thrilling matchup.