Francis Ngannou encounters first MMA promoter at MVP event

Francis Ngannou recently crossed paths with his first promoter, Stephane Chafourier. 

Ngannou (19-3) knocked out Philipe Lins in the first round of their heavyweight clash at Most Valuable Promotions "Rousey vs. Carano" card last weekend in Los Angeles. Chafourier was there to manage his fighter, Salahdine Parnasse, who also scored a first-round knockout win over Kenneth Cross. 

Ngannou came across Chafourier backstage at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. Ngannou revealed that Chafourier was his first promoter. Ngannou recalls not being paid anything for his first fight, which was a free tournament. However, “The Predator” was thrilled when he received 2,000 euros ($2,323) for his second fight. Ngannou recalls going to a corner and immediately counting his money.

“Mr. Chafourier. This is my first promoter,” Ngannou said while talking to Chafourier. “First fight, free tournament. Second one, I won 2,000 euros. I was so happy. He gave me a stack of 20 euros in an envelope. I went in the corner, was counting my money, was so excited.” 

Ngannou won his first professional fight at 100% Fight via an armbar submission in 2013. However, the future UFC champion dropped a unanimous decision in his sophomore outing in the promotion.