Jon Jones suggests Francis Ngannou could return to UFC if he shows humility and remorse during negotiations.
Amid growing conversations about potential heavyweight matchups, Jon Jones has addressed the path for Francis Ngannou’s return to the UFC. Following Ngannou’s dramatic departure from the promotion in 2023 as the reigning heavyweight champion, Jones believes there is still an opportunity for Ngannou to rejoin the UFC under specific conditions. The focus lies on whether Ngannou can meet the expectations of UFC President Dana White and resolve past disagreements.
Background on Ngannou’s UFC Exit and Post-UFC Career
Francis Ngannou’s split from the UFC came after disputes involving contract terms and his ambition to pursue a boxing career, which the UFC declined to support, contrasting with their previous allowance of Conor McGregor’s boxing match against Floyd Mayweather. After his contract expired, Ngannou left the UFC, concluding his tenure amid controversy. Since then, he has secured the PFL Super Fights Heavyweight Championship and participated in notable boxing bouts against former champions Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, although he was defeated in both encounters.
Ngannou’s Potential Return Hinges on Humility and Business
Although the UFC’s contract proposal to Ngannou was reportedly among the most lucrative ever offered, negotiations faltered. Jon Jones emphasizes that, beyond contracts and personal differences, Dana White values Ngannou’s drawing power and would likely welcome him back if the fighter approached the situation humbly. Jones shared on the Full Send Podcast,
Image of: Jon Jones
“Dana gets things done. I think business speaks before emotions, and if Francis presents himself in a humble way, I think he would easily get back in the UFC,”
—Jon Jones.
Jones expressed confidence that Dana White could finalize a deal with Ngannou should the fighter display the necessary remorse and approach. However, whether Ngannou stands as the ideal opponent for Jones at this time remains undetermined, especially considering the ongoing fan frustration surrounding the delayed Jones vs. Tom Aspinall title fight.
Fan Reactions and the Impact of a Potential Ngannou Return
If Ngannou re-enters the UFC and is positioned ahead of Tom Aspinall in rankings or fights, it could provoke strong backlash from fans who have been eagerly awaiting the Jones-Aspinall matchup. This possible scenario highlights the complex dynamics in the heavyweight division following Ngannou’s exit.
Ngannou’s Legacy and Influence Within UFC History
The discussion of Ngannou’s possible UFC return underscores the significant mark he left during his time in the organization. Known for his extraordinary punching power, Ngannou amassed a dedicated fanbase throughout his seven years in the promotion. His dominant streak from 2018 to 2022 featured a series of impressive finishes, culminating in his victory over Stipe Miocic for the heavyweight title at UFC 260.
Prior to claiming the championship, Ngannou achieved four consecutive first-round knockouts, three of which ended inside the opening minute. Remarkably, half of his fourteen UFC wins ended within the first two minutes, demonstrating his explosive fighting style and cementing his reputation as one of the division’s most feared strikers.
