Jon Jones Reacts to Francis Ngannou's Scathing Criticism of UFC's Alleged 'Lowball' Fight Offer

Jon Jones has responded to Francis Ngannou's comments regarding Jones's exclusion from the upcoming White House event.

Former two-division UFC champion Jon Jones continues to be at odds with UFC CEO Dana White and the promotion's leadership after being left off the anticipated White House card. Jones, who initially announced his MMA retirement last summer before reconsidering upon learning about the event, publicly demanded his release following White's recent remarks. After White claimed Jones was 'never an option' to headline UFC Freedom 250, Jones sharply rebutted, asserting he was in active negotiations with the UFC before receiving what he termed a 'lowball' offer.

In a recent social media post, Jones stated he was offered $15 million to fight Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250, whereas he was targeting an offer in the $30 million range.

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, who also has a history of disputes with White and the promotion, came to Jones's defense after his recent pay disagreement.

Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou Unite to Criticize UFC

In a recent interview, Ngannou weighed in on Jones's ongoing feud with White and the UFC brass.

"Of course, Jon Jones deserves that," Ngannou said of Jones. "Jon Jones has been with this organization for how long? Jon Jones has been the champion since he was 23, which is, what, 15 years? Over 15 years? If there is somebody that deserves something nowadays, just even to pay him tribute, it's Jon Jones. Jon Jones needs to get paid maybe not only for the fight that he's fighting, but for what he has done for the sport. For where he has taken the sport to.

"Aren't they out there bragging that he's the GOAT? Man, if the GOAT is not respected, then who should we respect?" Ngannou continued about Jones. "I worry if the GOAT is being treated like that. I truly worry if that's how they treat the GOAT, then those who are not the GOAT, I don't know, whatever they are, imagine what they are going through."

In a recent social media statement, Jones acknowledged Ngannou's remarks about his UFC pay dispute.

"I appreciate you advocating for me, Francis," Jones said.

Jones and Ngannou were linked to a potential UFC heavyweight title fight as early as 2021, after Ngannou defeated Stipe Miocic to win the UFC heavyweight title. However, the two sides couldn't come to terms on a fight, and Ngannou ultimately parted ways with the UFC in 2023.