Francis Ngannou Surprises Fans at UFC on ESPN 69 Weigh-ins

ATLANTA – Fans were surprised to see Francis Ngannou back on a UFC stage during the ceremonial weigh-ins for UFC on ESPN 69 on Friday at State Farm Arena. The former heavyweight champion joined his close friend, former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, who is set to fight Joaquin Buckley in the main event on Saturday night.

Ngannou’s appearance was unexpected, especially since he chose not to re-sign with the UFC in January 2023, leading to tensions between him and UFC President Dana White. According to a source familiar with the situation, Ngannou is not a licensed cornerman for Usman but was there to show support.

Wearing UFC Venum gear, Ngannou took the stage with Usman as they prepared for the highly anticipated matchup. Ngannou has not fought since last October, and there is no indication of when he might return to the octagon.

At the weigh-ins, Usman (20-4 MMA, 15-3 UFC) looked refreshed after a 19-month layoff. He is eager to snap a three-fight losing streak against Buckley (22-6 MMA, 11-4 UFC), who is riding a six-fight winning streak. Both fighters expressed confidence ahead of their five-round bout, which carries weight in the 170-pound title race.

The weigh-ins featured all 26 fighters hitting their contracted marks, which included notable bouts like former women’s strawweight champion Rose Namajunas versus Miranda Maverick in the women’s flyweight co-feature. The excitement continues to build for UFC on ESPN 69, which will air on ESPN.

As the event approaches, fans eagerly await to see if Usman can reclaim his dominance and how Ngannou will navigate his future in the sport.