Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou could not have placed on a memorable struggle at UFC 226, however years later, Ngannou’s profession strikes have not directly benefited “The Black Beast.” Now making ready to face Jhonata Diniz at UFC Edmonton, Lewis shared that Ngannou’s determination to signal with PFL helped him negotiate a greater UFC deal.
“Francis performed the function of serving to me get this contract that I acquired proper now,” Lewis instructed MMA Combating.
Lewis admitted that in negotiations, he referenced Ngannou’s alternative for “assured massive paydays” in PFL. Though he selected to stick with the UFC, the leverage Ngannou created within the MMA panorama labored in Lewis’ favor.
Along with his new contract in hand, Lewis, who scored a memorable knockout over Marcos Rogerio de Lima at UFC 291, is keen to stay energetic. “Now they’re making an attempt to area my fights out,” he defined. “I mentioned, ‘No, don’t area them out. Come on, give me them three or 4 fights.’”
Ngannou lately returned to the cage at PFL Battle of the Giants, securing a first-round knockout towards Renan Ferreira. Regardless of the victory, Ngannou fought with a heavy coronary heart following the tragic lack of his 15-month-old son, Kobe. Lewis, additionally a father, expressed deep empathy for his former opponent, saying, “To lose a son that early… I’m certain it’s very traumatic.”
Lewis admitted he doesn’t usually watch a lot MMA exterior his personal fights, however his coach confirmed him Ngannou’s efficiency. “Oh, it was good,” he commented, including that he heard the pay-per-view occasion drew solely 10,000 buys. “However it’s good [for Francis],” he added, supporting Ngannou’s path ahead.
With Ngannou’s affect behind his present success and a transparent ardour for preventing regularly, Lewis is able to capitalize on his UFC return towards Diniz this Saturday.
What do you consider Derrick Lewis’ appreciation for Ngannou’s impression on his profession? Might we see these two conflict once more, this time with massive stakes on the road? Please share your ideas and suggestions within the remark part beneath.
October 31, 2024 10:18 am
