Vadim Nemkov Envisions a Crossroads Moment: Could a Major Fight Follow If He Wins the PFL Heavyweight Title
December 11, 2025, 2:30 p.m. ET
A potential blockbuster looms on the horizon if Vadim Nemkov seizes the PFL heavyweight crown. The former Bellator champ, sporting an 18-2 record, is set to challenge Renan Ferreira (13-4), the 2024 PFL heavyweight season winner, in the main event of PFL Lyon. The bout takes place at LDLC Arena and airs on ESPN Unlmtd. If Nemkov prevails, Francis Ngannou (18-3) could become the next big-ticket opponent, as Ngannou awaits PFL’s proposal before his current deal ends.
“Of course, I think about Francis and the possibility of facing him,” Nemkov told MMA Junkie Radio through an interpreter. “If that’s my next fight, then wonderful. It’s really up to PFL to arrange and make it happen.”
Ferreira presents a considerable height advantage, but Nemkov faces the challenge with a plan. The fighter outlined the preparations he’s undertaken to counter a taller adversary.
“I’ve brought in taller training partners for this camp, and I actually began preparing for this scenario even when I served as an alternate for Francis’ fight,” Nemkov explained. “I’ve been sparring with taller opponents for a while, so I feel ready.”
Ferreira arrives off a first-round KO defeat to Ngannou last October. Given Ferreira’s track record—most of his bouts finish quickly—there’s broad anticipation that he’ll push hard from the opening bell. Nemkov, however, isn’t convinced Ferreira will rush in.
“I don’t think he’ll charge straight at me,” Nemkov said about Ferreira. “He knows I’m a seasoned veteran. That isn’t to his advantage. And while the crowd’s energy can be infectious, both fighters are veterans who will likely stay composed and level-headed.”
If Nemkov wins, the path to Ngannou could become a priority for the PFL, with the highly anticipated cross-promotional clash potentially reshaping the heavyweight landscape. Fans are left weighing the idea of Nemkov’s tactical edge against Ferreira’s power and Ngannou’s looming availability. Which outcome excites you more—and do you think Nemkov would present the right challenge for Ngannou once again stepping into the PFL arena?
