Francis Ngannou
All signs point to Francis Ngannou campaigning for Jon Jones to leave the UFC so they can finally face each other. Recently, Dana White surprised fans by sharing his version of why ‘Bones’ was left off the UFC card at The Sphere. However, this didn’t go unnoticed by Jon, who claimed it didn’t reflect reality and expressed interest in finishing his contract with the organization—a possibility that encouraged the Cameroonian.
On his X account, Ngannou stated that he is closely watching everything happening with Jones. The former UFC heavyweight champion revealed that he has a lot to say about the matter, but expressed that he would like to know if Jon Jones manages to finalize the end of his UFC contract.
In the post, Francis also emphasized that ‘Bones’ deserves a payout that matches everything he has done for the sport.
It was very interesting to see how this story unfolded yesterday. I have a lot to say, but for now, Jonny Boy, if you manage to get your freedom, let me know.
“You deserve more than $30 million after everything you’ve done for the sport, and they should be rolling out the red carpet for you.”
UFC 326 Press Conference
At the UFC 326 post-fight press conference, Dana White revealed that he never considered Jon Jones as an option for the unprecedented event.
According to the UFC president, even if the organization had put the former champion on the card, his presence would have been impossible due to his hip injury.
The Response
“Never ever, under any circumstances—as I’ve already told you guys a hundred thousand times. Jon Jones being at the White House wasn’t even remotely in my mind. I wouldn’t do it. First of all, I’ve already explained why he wouldn’t be there and why I wouldn’t do it.”
“Number two, a guy recorded him saying his hips were badly damaged. Jon Jones is retired because of his hips. He has arthritis in his hips. Apparently, the doctors said he should have a hip replacement.”
“On top of all the other reasons why I wouldn’t do it. That whole Jon Jones story is complete nonsense. The craziest part was Jon Jones saying, ‘I’m in negotiations to fight at the White House,’ after I sent a message to his lawyer telling him that was never going to happen. Yeah, he’s retired,” White explained.
While Dana White claims that the UFC never considered Jon Jones for the White House card, the former champion has a different version of the story.
In a social media post, Jones claimed that, contrary to what Dana said, his team actually negotiated directly with the UFC to be part of the June event.
“My team and I were indeed negotiating with the UFC for that fight. Real negotiations. And what did they offer me in return? A lowball offer. Yes, I have arthritis in my hip, but that doesn’t mean I can’t fight.”
“So, let me get this straight: If I had accepted that lowball offer, all of a sudden my hip would be fine and I’d be on the White House card? That makes no sense… If the UFC really believes I’m washed up, then I respectfully ask to be released from my contract,” Jones responded.
Will Jon Jones manage to get his contract terminated and finalize the fight fans have been waiting years to see? We will just have to wait and see what happens in the coming days.
