Jon Jones has revealed he is seeking a way out of his UFC contract to finally face Francis Ngannou, a fight that has long eluded fans. The heavyweight champion has fought only twice in three years, with his most recent victory a knockout of Stipe Miocic in his sole title defence. Jones was offered a bout against Alex Pereira on next month's UFC White House card but could not agree terms.
Ngannou left the UFC in 2023 to join the PFL, and UFC CEO Dana White has stated he will not work with the Cameroonian again. Jones, who has six fights remaining on his contract, believes leaving the promotion is the only route to make the clash happen. 'I've got to focus on trying to get out of my UFC contract,' Jones said. 'I don't think Dana is interested in doing business with Francis. Doing it with MVP would probably be the only way to make it happen.'
Jones's comments come after Ngannou knocked out Philipe Lins last weekend on Jake Paul's debut MMA card, which also featured Ronda Rousey's win over Gina Carano. Paul expressed sympathy for Jones's contractual situation, saying, 'I just feel bad when Jon Jones can't get out of his contract to be a free agent, to be able to provide for his family. He can't control his career.'
Jones also hinted at a potential move to boxing, inspired by Ngannou's lucrative fights against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. 'You know what? I've really wanted to box,' he said. 'If I were to put all my energy into just my hands, my combinations, my punching power, I think I would really surprise a lot of people.' He added that leaving the UFC is 'very, very possible' with the right approach.
