Francis Ngannou returning to MMA in October

(Photo credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)
Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou will return to mixed-martial arts this fall after nearly three years away from competition.

The Professional Fighters League -- PFL -- announced Wednesday that Ngannou will make his debut with the promotion on Oct. 19, facing PFL heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira for the PFL Super Fight belt.

Ngannou (17-3) hasn't fought i