Manager: Francis Ngannou to Undergo Knee Surgery, Likely Faces 9-Month Recovery

Even if Francis Ngannou does return to the UFC, it will be quite some time before the heavyweight champion is back in action in the Octagon.

Ngannou’s manager, Marquel Martin, told ESPN on Wednesday that the fighter will have surgery to repair a torn MCL and damaged ACL when he returns to the United States. Ngannou is planning a trip to his native Cameroon and did not want the procedure to affect his homecoming. Ngannou is expected to need a minimum of nine months to recover.

Ngannou injured his knee during sparring ahead of his title unification bout against Ciryl Gane in the UFC 270 main event. Despite recommendations to pull out of the fight, “The Predator” went forward with the bout, winning a unanimous decision behind his wrestling.

"I continue to be amazed and inspired by Francis' heart and resilience," Martin told ESPN. "Fighting on one leg to overcome all odds, and remind the world he is the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. I think we can all agree he deserves some time to go back home and be with his family and countrymen.

"Upon his return, we plan on getting surgery and starting the recovery process so we can get him back to 100 percent as soon as possible. In the meantime, we hope we can find a peaceful resolution in these contract talks. We'd like to thank all the fans for their continued support and belief in Francis.”

Ngannou fought the last fight on an eight-bout UFC deal this past Saturday, but due to a champion’s clause, he remains under contract with the promotion. Ngannou, who earned a disclosed $600,000 payday for his win, has said that he is willing to sit out unless new terms are agreed upon. Ngannou told ESPN that he would like his new contract to allow him the freedom to box professionally. UFC president Dana White was not around to present Ngannou with the belt in the Octagon at UFC 270, nor did he attend Saturday’s post-fight press conference.