One dream from MMA fans across the globe has been to witness Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou.
The MMA world is buzzing with speculation over a potential showdown between two of the most feared heavyweights: Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou. While UFC CEO Dana White has repeatedly downplayed the idea, former UFC fighter and commentator Daniel Cormier believes that, under the right circumstances, it just might happen.
White has been vocal about his feelings toward Ngannou, saying there’s little chance of a collaboration. The two have had a strained relationship since Ngannou’s departure from the UFC to join the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Cormier acknowledges this tension, but he remains hopeful about the possibilities.
Daniel Cormier High Hopes of Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou
“If Turki and Francis and Jon can make these dollars make sense, why wouldn’t they do it?” Cormier said on his YouTube channel, referring to Saudi Arabian influencer Turki Alalshikh, who has played a role in organizing big-money fights. “I’m not sitting up here saying it’s going to happen because Dana does not like Francis. That is a massive problem – massive problem.”
Jones, who holds an impressive record of 27-1 in MMA and 21-1 in the UFC, is set to make his first heavyweight title defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 on November 16 at Madison Square Garden. There has been talk that this could be Jones’s last fight, as both he and his coaches have hinted at a possible retirement afterward. However, Jones’ coach, Greg Jackson, has suggested that the allure of a big paycheck could keep him in the octagon for at least one more match. And a fight against Ngannou, now a PFL heavyweight champion, would almost certainly bring the financial incentive Jones might need.
Ngannou’s team is optimistic, too, hinting that they would be open to a cross-promotional fight if the right opportunity arises. Cormier believes that a shared broadcast partner might make things easier. “If Francis is to be believed, and Francis has had these conversations, we’re now entering a world where multiple partnerships already are established in this realm,” Cormier noted.
Will we see Super Fight?
ESPN, the broadcast partner for both the UFC and PFL, could be the bridge needed to make this potential superfight a reality. Cormier remains cautiously optimistic, noting the shifts in the fighting landscape. “ESPN UFC, ESPN PFL, Riyadh Season UFC – ladies and gentlemen, maybe, just maybe, we get that fight,” he added.
Do you think we will see Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
