Derrick Lewis to stay with UFC; signs new eight-fight contract

Author: Chandra Moulee Das

Former UFC heavyweight title contender Derrick Lewis recently signed a new eight-fight contract with the organization, ending his brief period as a free agent. This development was confirmed by MMA Junkie.

In addition, UFC president Dana White also confirmed the news on Wednesday, validating Lewis’ contract extension.

“I love Derrick Lewis. Personally and professionally, I love the guy. So, yes“, said White when asked about rehiring Lewis at the Power Slap 4 post-fight press conference.

This decision puts an end to all speculation about Lewis’ possible move to another promotion, such as the Professional Fighters League (PFL), which could have led to a highly anticipated and financially rewarding rematch with Francis Ngannou. Although the initial fight between Lewis and Ngannou was widely regarded as one of the UFC’s least impressive heavyweight fights, it still had significant market appeal. The PFL, which had already secured Ngannou’s contract at the beginning of the year after he vacated the UFC heavyweight title, would probably be inclined to promote this rematch.

Lewis ended his previous contract with the UFC at UFC 291, held in Salt Lake City the previous month. He demonstrated his dominance by quickly defeating Marcos Rogério de Lima with a flying knee at the start of the fight. This victory put an end to Lewis’ run of three consecutive defeats and rejuvenated his popularity among the fans.

In 2018, Lewis challenged for the heavyweight title, but ended up succumbing to a finish by then-champion Daniel Cormier. His quest for the interim title in 2021 at UFC 265 resulted in another setback, as he was defeated by technical knockout by French heavyweight Ciryl Gane. Gane would later be beaten in a title unification bout against Ngannou.

Derrick Lewis is currently ranked 10th in the official UFC heavyweight rankings.