Renan Ferreira is in good spirits after his latest MMA loss.
The 6ft 8in Brazilian KO artist was backed by many to cause a big upset before he squared off against Francis Ngannou in the PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants main event on Saturday night.
However, he was quickly taken down to the floor and brutally knocked out by a series of ground strikes from the former UFC heavyweight champion, who dedicated the win to his late son.
Fans feared the worst when cageside footage emerged of Ferreira taking 15 unanswered shots before going limp – but he’s eased concerns with a surprisingly cheerful social media statement.
Renan Ferreira breaks his silence following Francis Ngannou defeat
On Sunday, Ferreira shared a video of him sitting in a bed while talking directly to the camera on his Instagram story, with the caption: “Haha we’re back thank y’all for the love.”
“What’s up people, Renan Problema here, broken,” Ferreira said with a chuckle in Portuguese. “Yesterday wasn’t a good day in work, but I’m very happy with all our dedication and everything that we did.
“I always had in my mind that I cannot lose against myself because I wasn’t dedicated or compromised but thank God my conscience is clean.
“I have worked a lot there, I got there I was very happy and ready for the fight, but my opponent was better, and he did a move that I couldn’t defend. It was a powerful ground and pound that was very strong, but that’s it, life keeps going.
“In a few, we’re gonna be back, and thank you all for all the love and support.”
Ferreira now faces the tough task of rebuilding his career at 34 years old.
Heading into his fight with Ngannou, he was riding an impressive four-fight win streak that had seen him KO all his opponents, capture two world titles and win $1million.
It appears that Ferreira will be back in the PFL smart cage at some point in 2025.
Francis Ngannou earned props from Jon Jones for his performance
Ngannou spent 1000 days away from MMA before making a triumphant return to the sport that made him famous.
The 38-year-old overcame tough defeats in boxing and grappled with the shocking death of his 15-month-old son Kobe, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Despite everything, Ngannou looked flawless as he dispatched Ferreira inside one round.
UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones, who he has not always seen eye-to-eye with, could do nothing but praise the Cameroonian for his performance.
“What an amazing job Francis did tonight,” Jones wrote on social media.
“Displayed a complete MMA game. Great kicks, great takedowns. It feels good to see him shine.
“Wow congratulations Champ, I see you.”
However, his nice act only lasted a few moments as he sent a thinly veiled threat in response to a fan claiming that Ngannou would “smoke” him.
“Sure,” he replied. “Everyone beats me up until they’re in there with me.”