Francis Ngannou disclosed that Turki Alalshikh made efforts to arrange a super fight featuring Jon Jones, but the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/ufc/”>UFC declined to cooperate, preventing the match from materializing. This revelation came amidst ongoing frustration over the dream heavyweight bout between Ngannou and Jones, which remained unrealized due to contractual complications and promotional barriers.
Before retiring, Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou shared a tense rivalry that fans eagerly wanted to see settled in the octagon. However, negotiations fell through, and Ngannou left the UFC after failing to reach terms, leaving the much-anticipated clash theoretical. Despite this, conversations about the potential showdown continued among fighters and fans alike.
Jones had avoided a fight with UK rising star Tom Aspinall during his UFC tenure, which disappointed many followers who wanted to see that contest go ahead. Instead, Jones appeared to prioritize a match with Ngannou, which kept the super fight hope alive. Still, Ngannou recently confirmed he never received an official offer for the bout.
No, never get up. For sure the UFC don’t want anything to do, don’t want any co-promotion done. Right. Because, I mean, I think even Turki tried to make that fight happen. It didn’t work.
—Francis Ngannou via The Ariel Helwani
Ngannou explained that UFC’s reluctance to collaborate or co-promote was a significant barrier, even though Turki Alalshikh attempted to facilitate the fight. Alalshikh, a prominent figure in boxing with close connections to UFC president Dana White, has played an influential role in bridging MMA and boxing promotions recently.
Reports indicated Alalshikh was ready to offer Jones $30 million to fight Aspinall, but Jones rejected the proposal and instead opted for retirement. This decision sparked criticism accusing Jones of dodging a legitimate challenge to protect his standing in the sport. Ngannou also commented on Jones’ avoidance of Aspinall, offering insight into the controversy.
Well, I think maybe that was his own, maybe a maneuver of negotiation. Retirement doesn’t mean anything. If he decides tomorrow that he’s fighting, and that retirement is filed, it means nothing, nobody will stop him. If he keeps training, that doesn’t change anything. So, it might be his strategy, or he might just have enough, which is understandable.
—Francis Ngannou
Ngannou suggested that Jones’ retirement could be a strategic ploy rather than a definitive end to his fighting career, pointing out that retirement filings don’t prevent a return if Jones chooses to come back. Besides strategy, Jones may simply be emotionally or physically ready to step away, which Ngannou acknowledged as understandable.
Meanwhile, Jones has reportedly shown interest in participating in the upcoming White House event next year, though his deteriorated relationship with the UFC and the complexities of arranging such high-profile bouts continue to cast uncertainty over his future. Fans remain anxious to see if Jones will finally secure the fights he desires or if negotiations will once again fall apart.
The Impact of Jon Jones’ Fight Choices on His Career and Legacy
Jon Jones is widely recognized as one of MMA’s greatest athletes, having defended his light heavyweight title fifteen times and beaten elite opponents such as Maurício Rua, Daniel Cormier, and Dominick Reyes. His dominance over multiple generations of top fighters solidified his status as a legend with exceptional longevity and adaptability within the sport.
Despite this, Jones’ final period in the UFC was marked by controversy as he declined to fight Tom Aspinall, a rising heavyweight contender, frustrating fans hoping to see a decisive heavyweight reign. Curtis Blaydes, a top heavyweight, recently acknowledged Jones’ departure from the division, prompting a harsh response from supporters who expressed their frustration vocally.
Jones’ extended inactivity hindered the division‘s momentum and drew accusations that he was evading threats, especially from Aspinall and Ngannou. Critics frequently highlighted his controversial tactics inside the octagon, citing questionable moves such as eye pokes and other techniques that strained his reputation.
Outside of fighting, Jones’ career has been overshadowed by multiple personal issues including suspensions for performance-enhancing drugs and legal troubles. These factors continue to provoke debate about his place among the all-time greats, with some fans emphasizing his unmatched skill while others fault his actions outside the ring.
Jones’ reluctance to face certain opponents combined with his checkered personal history leaves his legacy in a complex light, blending remarkable athletic achievements with ongoing controversy. How the public ultimately judges him may depend on his future decisions, if he returns to competition, or definitively retires.