39-year-old UFC fighter follows the footsteps of Francis Ngannou to join PFL, expecting to make his debut in November

Derek Brunson and the UFC parted ways last month. Brunson had a scheduled bout against Roman Dolidze on November 11 at Madison Square Garden for UFC 295, but his departure from the organization changed things.

Following his release from the UFC, ‘The One’ is now looking forward to continue his MMA journey with the Professional Fighters League. The 39-year-old veteran middleweight fighter has joined forces with the PFL, following Francis Ngannou’s footsteps, and is expected to make his debut in November.

Derek Burnson joins the PFL

Derek Brunson’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz confirmed that the American fighter has inked a deal with the PFL and will be part of their upcoming $1 million light heavyweight tournament, scheduled to kick off in 2024.

Ali shared this development in an interview with ‘The Schmo’. Though he didn’t disclose the exact date for Brunson’s promotional debut or reveal any potential opponents, PFL’s official Twitter account disclosed the news of Derek joining the promotion. The social media post further revealed that Derek will be making his PFL debut against Ray Cooper III on November 24th.

Update on Francis Ngannou PFL debut

Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion signed a deal with the Professional Fighters League. Francis has signed a deal what’s being called a “Strategic Partnership,” that gives the heavyweight fighter equity and leadership roles in the promotion.

Ngannou plans to debut for the promotion in mid-2024 after his highly anticipated boxing match with Tyson Fury. In an interview with New York Times Ngannou said that his contract with the promotion is more than anyone else has ever offered him. Francis further praised PFL, stating that they aren’t just a promotion looking for a fighter but a partner that sees greater value in an individual. As part of his deal, Ngannou also becomes the new chairman of PFL Africa, as the promotion plans to expand to the continent in the near future.

The Predator will also have a role on the Promotion’s advisory board to represent the athletes’ interests. Francis Ngannou will make his boxing debut against Tyson Fury on October 28. The crossover fight between the two heavyweights is one of the most anticipated bouts of the year.

Tell us in the comments your thoughts on the bout between Fury and Ngannou. Also tell us your thoughts on the “strategic alliance” of Francis with the PFL.