If Ngannou leaves the PFL, the likelihood of him signing a deal with the UFC would largely depend on his relationship with White.

Ngannou said he left the promotion for “freedom” rather than money, citing frustrations at being bound by UFC contract rules.

Last month White described Ngannou as a “bad guy”,, external citing an alleged confrontation they had after one of Ngannou’s UFC fights.

White claimed Ngannou pushed him in his office after not being awarded a post-fight bonus, and later grabbed another UFC official by the shirt.

Asked about the allegations, Ngannou said: “Why am I not surprised?

“If Dana says this, then I’m out here to defend myself. Whatever he said, if he’s at peace with it, it’s OK.

“Maybe I’m getting old. I have less energy for drama. I just want to be at peace and for people to leave me alone.”