Renan Ferreira aims to win the inaugural PFL heavyweight championship against Vadim Nemkov, hoping it leads to a rematch with Francis Ngannou, while also highlighting Ngannou’s role in PFL Africa and the importance of his presence in promoting opportunities for emerging fighters.
Renan Ferreira’s got his eyes on the prize—the inaugural PFL heavyweight championship. This Saturday, he faces Vadim Nemkov at PFL Lyon in France. He’s hoping for a shot at redemption against Francis Ngannou afterward.
“Problema” took a tough knockout loss to Ngannou back in October 2024. Reflecting on that fight, Ferreira regrets the mistakes made in Saudi Arabia against the former UFC champ.
“I was in a really good place for that fight,” Ferreira told MMA Fighting. “Trained hard, both physically and technically. Ngannou surprised me by avoiding striking. I’ve fixed those mistakes and want that rematch to show a different game.”
But first, Ferreira won’t underestimate Nemkov. The ex-Bellator light heavyweight champ is undefeated for nearly a decade, with two heavyweight stoppage wins. Yet, Ferreira admits Ngannou’s rematch is still on his mind.
“Right now, I’m focused on Nemkov,” Ferreira said. “It’s a crucial fight for me, a tough one. But, yeah, the thought of a rematch with Ngannou lingers.”
Ngannou hasn’t fought since beating Ferreira. After high-profile boxing matches with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, his future in MMA is uncertain. Ferreira expects Ngannou back in 2026.
“He’s an athlete who loves challenges,” Ferreira said. “I hope it’s against me.”
Ferreira’s size and speed are key against Nemkov. “I’m a big guy, fast, and can land heavy shots,” he said. “It’s a chess match.”
Nemkov’s moving up from 205, bringing speed and a unique style. “We have to prepare differently,” Ferreira noted. “He’s adapting well to heavyweight, with fast strikes and single-leg takedowns.”
Meanwhile, Ngannou’s PFL contract includes creating PFL Africa, where he’s chairman. He missed the first event, disappointing PFL chairman Donn Davis.
Ferreira believes Ngannou should be more present. “It’s a huge opportunity for people there,” he said. “Just his presence can open doors and bring credibility to rising fighters.”