Jon Jones has responded to Francis Ngannou’s recent comments regarding the UFC Hall of Famer’s exclusion from the upcoming White House event.
The former two-division UFC champion, Jon Jones, is currently at odds with UFC CEO Dana White and the promotion’s leadership. This dispute stems from his omission from the highly anticipated White House card. Jones, who initially declared his retirement from MMA last summer but reconsidered upon news of the event, publicly demanded his release after White stated he was ‘never an option’ to headline UFC Freedom 250. Jones refuted White’s claim, asserting he was actively negotiating with the UFC before being presented with a ‘lowball’ offer.
On social media, Jones revealed he was offered $15 million for a fight against Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250, despite seeking an offer closer to $30 million.
Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion who has previously had his own well-documented disagreements with White and the organization, has now publicly supported Jones amid his pay dispute.
Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou Unite in Criticism of UFC Over White House Card Exclusion
During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Ngannou shared his perspective on Jones’ ongoing conflict with White and the UFC hierarchy.
Ngannou passionately argued for Jones’ worth, stating, “Of course, Jon Jones deserves that.” He highlighted Jones’ extensive tenure, noting, “Jon Jones has been the champion since he was 23, which is, what 15 years? Over 15 years? If there is somebody that deserves something nowadays, like just even to pay him tribute, it’s Jon Jones.” Ngannou emphasized that Jones should be compensated not just for his fights, but for his profound contributions to the sport and its growth. He questioned the UFC’s stance, asking, “Aren’t they out there bragging that he’s the GOAT? Man, if the GOAT is not respected, then who should we respect?” Ngannou concluded by expressing concern: “I worry if the GOAT is being treated like that. I truly worry if that’s how they treat the GOAT, then those who are not the GOAT, I don’t know, whatever they are, imagine what they are going through.”
Responding via an Instagram story, Jones acknowledged Ngannou’s supportive comments regarding his UFC pay dispute, simply stating, “I appreciate you advocating for me, Francis.”
A heavyweight clash between Jones and Ngannou was a highly anticipated prospect as early as 2021, particularly after Ngannou secured the UFC heavyweight title by defeating Stipe Miocic. Despite the excitement, negotiations ultimately failed, leading to Ngannou’s departure from the UFC in 2023.