Former UFC fighter and current PFL color commentator, Kenny Florian, expressed his enthusiasm over the potential signing of Derrick Lewis to PFL, saying that it could set the stage for a possible rematch with Francis Ngannou, PFL’s substantial free agent signing.
Lewis recently turned heads with his striking free agency declaration after a 33-second victory over Marcos Rogerio de Lima at UFC 291. Florian stated that the UFC star’s high-value market position, marked by his impressive finish style and affable personality, would make him a valuable addition to the PFL lineup.
“Derrick Lewis is one of UFC’s most personable fighters,” Florian commented on the Heck of a Morning show while promoting the upcoming PFL Playoffs. “His surprising knockout in his last UFC contract fight was fantastic to see. His decision to go all out and execute a flawless flying knee is exactly how one should do it. Even when on a losing streak, it’s common for fighters to become more reserved, focusing solely on securing a win. However, Lewis went in with full force. Having a fighter like him on board would be a massive win for PFL.”
Ngannou is slated to make his PFL debut in early 2024, following his boxing match with Tyson Fury in October. The former UFC heavyweight champion, during his promotional contract discussions, also managed to secure a minimum purse of $2 million for his future PFL opponents.
Lewis secured a victory over Ngannou in their UFC 226 match in July 2018, a fight infamous for being one of the least thrilling in MMA history. The underwhelming performance, especially considering the finishing potential of both fighters, took spectators by surprise. If a rematch were to take place in the PFL, Florian strongly believes that it’s highly unlikely for such a scenario to reoccur.
“Given their aggressive fighting styles and their awareness of what transpired in their initial encounter, I’d say one of them would likely get knocked out this time,” Florian projected. “The first fight was certainly unique and highly unexpected.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Derrick Lewis PFL signing
What did Kenny Florian say about Derrick Lewis possibly signing with PFL?
Kenny Florian expressed enthusiasm about the potential signing of Derrick Lewis to PFL, saying that it could be a great opportunity for a rematch with Francis Ngannou. He praised Lewis’s fighting style and likable personality, stating that Lewis would be a valuable addition to the PFL roster.
Who did Derrick Lewis recently beat at UFC 291?
Derrick Lewis recently achieved a victory over Marcos Rogerio de Lima at UFC 291.
When is Francis Ngannou expected to make his promotional debut in PFL?
Francis Ngannou is expected to make his promotional debut in the PFL in the first quarter of 2024.
What did Ngannou secure during his promotional contract discussions with PFL?
During his promotional contract discussions with PFL, Ngannou managed to negotiate a minimum purse of $2 million for his future PFL opponents.
Who won the fight between Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou at UFC 226?
Derrick Lewis won the fight against Francis Ngannou at UFC 226 in July 2018. This match, however, is considered one of the least thrilling in MMA history.
More about Derrick Lewis PFL signing
- Kenny Florian’s UFC career
- Derrick Lewis’s UFC profile
- Francis Ngannou’s career highlights
- PFL official website
- UFC 291 fight results
- Information about the fight between Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou at UFC 226
