The wait to see Francis Ngannou in another MMA fight is coming to a close.
Netflix and Most Valuable Promotions revealed on Monday the former UFC heavyweight champion has agreed to take on Philipe Lins in a matchup that will be featured on the historic Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card on May 16.
Ngannou, who hasn’t taken a mixed martial arts scrap since he beat Renan Ferreira in October 2024 in the Professional Fights League, promised fireworks in a statement announcing the upcoming tilt.
“While the world was busy talking, I was busy evolving,” Ngannou said. “Silence shouldn’t be mistaken for absence — it’s the sound of a predator closing the distance. Stepping back into the cage isn’t just a return; it’s a reclamation.”
Following a legendary run in the UFC, Ngannou, nicknamed “The Predator,” fought sparingly — only competing against Ferreira in the PFL and in boxing matches against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
A breakup with the PFL last week, however, allowed the 39-year-old to quickly land a new challenge.
Lins, 40, has four UFC wins on his resume and an 18-5 overall professional MMA record. He last fought at UFC 299 in March 2024 against Ion Cutelaba.
The duo’s matchup will feature five, five-minute rounds inside a hexagon cage and will precede the much-anticipated Rousey vs. Carano fight that’ll be streamed globally on Netflix at Intuit Dome in Inglewood.
“Francis Ngannou is unequivocally the best heavyweight MMA fighter in the world, and his addition creates star power like never before seen in the sport,” MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian said.
“Francis is one of the most feared knockout artists the sport has ever seen, and his return to MMA instantly makes this a historic night. Philipe Lins is a proven champion who built his reputation the hard way against elite competition, and knows this is his chance to cement his legacy and take Brazil back to the top of the sport.”
All fighters are expected to break down their upcoming bouts during a press conference on Tuesday inside Intuit Dome.
