Francis Ngannou has stepped into the ongoing dispute between Jon Jones and Dana White, publicly backing the former UFC champion and questioning how the promotion has handled the situation.
The controversy erupted earlier this week when Jones demanded his release from the UFC following comments from Dana White about his absence from the upcoming White House event. Jones accused the promotion of offering him a “lowball” deal during negotiations for the card.
Francis Ngannou, who experienced his own contract dispute with the UFC in 2023, quickly reacted to the situation.
The former heavyweight champion took to social media to show support for Jones and criticized how the UFC handled negotiations with one of the sport’s biggest stars.
“Watching this story unfold yesterday was very interesting,” Ngannou wrote.“I have lots to say, but for now, Jonny boy, if you manage to get your freedom, then let me know. You deserve that $30M+ after everything you’ve done for the sport, and they should be rolling out the RED CARPET for you.”
Ngannou’s comments reflect his own experience with the UFC after he parted ways with the promotion following a lengthy contract dispute before signing with the Professional Fighters’ League.
For years, fans hoped to see Ngannou face Jon Jones in a heavyweight superfight. The matchup first gained traction around 2020, when Jones vacated the light heavyweight title to move up to the heavyweight division.
Despite years of speculation, the fight never materialized.
Now, with Jones openly discussing the possibility of leaving the UFC, a potential showdown between the two heavyweight stars could still happen outside the promotion.
While the situation surrounding Jones continues to unfold, Ngannou is focused on his own upcoming fight.
The former UFC champion will return to MMA on May 16 when he faces Philipe Lins in a bout promoted by Most Valuable Promotions. The event will also feature Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano and will stream on Netflix.
But Ngannou stirred headlines during the event’s press conference when he took aim at Jake Paul.
“No, I’m not interested in fighting Jake Paul,” Ngannou said. “I’m interested in beating his ass. Not fighting him.”
Paul didn’t hesitate to respond when he grabbed the microphone later in the press conference.
“I’m down. I’ve always been down,” Paul said. “You were the option before Anthony Joshua, and you ran like a duck. And I bet you didn’t think I would last longer than you did with Anthony either. So just know that you get worked in boxing, and I would love to see it someday.”
Ngannou fired back, explaining that Paul’s previous comments are exactly why he now wants the fight.
“You were just being a small boy, not understanding, being a little disrespectful, and that’s why I want to kick your ass now,” Ngannou said. “I really didn’t want to fight you, but now I want to beat you. There’s a difference.”
Before any potential clash with Jake Paul can happen, Ngannou must first get past Philipe Lins when they meet on May 16 in Los Angeles.
Still, Ngannou’s latest comments show he is keeping a close eye on the drama surrounding Jon Jones and he clearly believes the UFC should treat one of the sport’s greatest fighters with far more respect.
