Last night, The Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, hosted an electrifying comeback by former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. Renan Ferreira posed as the opponent for the ‘Predator’ who returned to MMA competition after more than a year-long hiatus. However, the way the fight concluded raised serious questions about the officiating by the PFL referee.
Francis Ngannou’s promotional debut fight was scheduled against a formidable opponent, Renan Fereira. Interestingly, Ferreira is popular for possessing an exquisite knockout prowess similar to Ngannou. However, as for the former UFC champion, the fight had an altogether different significance as he stated that it was a tribute to his late son.
With that motivation, Ngannou stepped into the ring and faced Ferreira. Initially, the Brazilian fighter made several attempts to neutralize the Cameroonian-born fighter with his BJJ prowess. However, he failed in those. When Ngannou got his hands on Ferreira, he took the Brazilian down and finished him with a ground-and-pound KO.
Francis Ngannou just killed Ferreira pic.twitter.com/mBUamJBfdF
— Shannonnn sharpes Burner (PARODY Account) (@shannonsharpeee) October 19, 2024
Many fight fans expressed disappointment over the referee’s delay call. As such, they believed the fight could have been stopped after Ngannou landed 2 to 3 punches. This situation raises concerns for fans, especially given the numerous cases they have witnessed over the years involving fighters suffering from CTE and other head injuries.
Fight fans react to Francis Ngannou thrashing Renan Ferreira in a ground-and-pound exchange
Francis Ngannou, a fighter from Cameroon, has made an impressive name for himself since joining the UFC. Over his seven-year career in the organization, Ngannou has defeated many tough opponents in the heavyweight division. Additionally, he has achieved several notable knockout victories, solidifying his reputation in the sport.
The fight fans knew the damage Ngannou can inflict on his opponents. Due to this, they seemed furious at the referee, who was letting the Predator land powerful punches on Ferreira’s head. Check out some of the reactions below.
Ref wanted to see a funeral
— Arion Armeniakos (@ArionArmeniakos) October 19, 2024
Referee wanted buddy in a bodybag
— Dominus (@StickBang) October 19, 2024
almost a murder
— sleepysign 😴🫘👾 (@sleepyxsign) October 20, 2024
TW: UFC…
Why did the ref let FN get the last three punches in when Ferreira couldn’t defend himself ? Lazy & dangerous refereeing !! https://t.co/OGq3Ruzu0j
— 🦅 (@Bryan_hmm) October 19, 2024
Ref don’t care bout his life https://t.co/Ur8BXSgTRw
— The JaKobe (@SPRVSL) October 19, 2024
demolishing a n!gga who’s 6’8 260lbs in a cage is scary https://t.co/hY3uVCSNRv
— 🧣 (@StiIINiINiI) October 20, 2024
MMA refs are such sickos, fighter getting CTE the ref be like hold on now he still got some fight left in him https://t.co/yqxvqC35lj
— (Annoying) Ben🇲🇼🇲🇼🇲🇼🇲🇼🇲🇼 (@knoxben1) October 20, 2024
Those shots to the back of the head though
— Cheffa (@Web3Cheffa) October 19, 2024
This ref about to get fired
— Mr CEO 👌🏾 (@gentlemanceo80) October 19, 2024
Dana White needs to spend BIG money to bring him back, even if it’s for one massive fight
— juug (@eljugo29) October 19, 2024
That last shot to the back of the head…sheesh i hope he’s ok
— fhools⚡️🦀 (@og_fhools) October 19, 2024
Ref had money on ferreira😭😭
— sb.shawn_ (@sbshawn3) October 19, 2024
Jail the referee lmao https://t.co/C4XhqHknzJ
— 🤨Doncelloti🤨 (@donnyfaison) October 19, 2024
While many were worried about Ferreira, others praised Francis Ngannou’s skills in MMA. Additionally, the majority of fight fans called for the referee’s dismissal. In the midst of all this, Ngannou achieved championship status in another promotion, further enhancing his reputation as a combat sports athlete.
