Amidst recent controversies, Jon Jones made a notable appearance on the broadcast booth during the PFL Champions vs Bellator Champions pay-per-view this past weekend. Seizing the opportunity, ‘Bones’ engaged in an interview where he addressed the burning questions circulating within the fighting community, particularly concerning the selection of his next opponent as the UFC heavyweight champion.
Reflecting on potential matchups, Jones highlighted the significance of facing various contender:
“You know, I feel like there’s a lot of fights that the world wants right now. You know the Tom Aspinall fight still, that’s really massive. Francis Ngannou and I would be really massive, and Stipe [Miocic] to the hardcore fans, is still a respectable opponent.”
Expressing confidence in his abilities, Jones asserted:
“My prediction is that I will beat Stipe Miocic, my prediction is that I will beat Tom Aspinall and Francis Ngannou, so the way that it unfolds is really not my business. My job is just to do what I’ve always done since day one.”
Francis Ngannou Fires Back at Jon Jones at PFL vs. Bellator Champs
However, an unexpected moment ensued when the camera turned to Francis Ngannou in the crowd. Ngannou’s response to Jones’s prediction was swift and unapologetic, as he retorted, “In your dreams. You’re f****** fat.”
Shifting gears, Jones weighed in on Ngannou’s upcoming boxing match against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, expressing solidarity with his MMA counterpart:
“I’m rooting for Francis to win, only because his story, how far he’s come in life, me being a fellow mixed martial artist. How could you not root for Francis?”
While acknowledging Joshua’s expertise, Jones maintained his support for Ngannou, recognizing the significance of his journey:
“Anthony Joshua has been doing this since he was a young boy, and I’m the type of guy who gives respect where it’s due.”
Jones, now holding the UFC heavyweight title, inherited the crown formerly held by Ngannou himself, who relinquished it in January 2023 upon the expiration of his contract with the UFC.
Ngannou Departing the UFC
Since departing from the UFC, Ngannou has made strides in his career, notably in his boxing match against WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, where he showcased remarkable resilience and skill, earning him significant recognition and reportedly close to $10 million.
Looking ahead, Ngannou has expressed intentions to return to MMA following his bout with Joshua. While this prospect may reignite the possibility of a showdown with Jones, numerous hurdles remain, particularly concerning contractual disputes between Ngannou and UFC CEO Dana White.
Do you think fans ever witness the fight between Jon Jones Francis Ngannou? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
