TLDR
- Francis Ngannou says a fight between himself and Jon Jones would be the biggest in combat sports history
- Ngannou dismissed the idea that Jon Jones vs Alex Pereira would be the biggest UFC fight ever
- The former UFC heavyweight champion left the organization in January 2023 after contract disputes
- UFC president Dana White has committed to delivering the greatest fight card ever for a planned White House event in June
- Ngannou currently competes in boxing after signing with PFL following his UFC departure
Francis Ngannou has made his position clear on what would constitute the biggest fight in combat sports history.
The 39-year-old former UFC heavyweight champion recently dismissed suggestions that a matchup between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira would claim that title.
When asked about his interest in a potential Jones versus Pereira bout, Ngannou told TMZ Sports he would watch the fight. However, he stated it wouldn’t be a “wow” moment for him.
Francis Ngannou believes the UFC White House card needs him 👀
“If you want ‘biggest [event] of all time,’ you make it the biggest. That can only happen with Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou.” pic.twitter.com/ROxTbb4XTR
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) November 10, 2025
Joe Rogan had previously claimed that Jones versus Pereira could be the biggest fight in human history. Both fighters have expressed interest in facing each other at the planned White House UFC event scheduled for June 2026.
Ngannou insisted that only a fight between himself and Jones deserves consideration for the biggest matchup ever. He acknowledged his respect for all fighters regardless of their card position. The former champion noted he won his world title at the UFC Apex with no crowd present.
“The biggest fight of all time can only happen with Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou,” Ngannou stated. He emphasized this opinion while maintaining respect for other potential matchups.
Jon Jones holds a record of 28-1 in MMA and 22-1 in the UFC. He is widely considered the greatest fighter of all time. Alex Pereira currently serves as UFC light heavyweight champion with a record of 13-3 in MMA and 10-2 in the UFC.
The Split From UFC
Ngannou and Jones appeared destined to meet when Ngannou held the UFC heavyweight championship. That fight never happened after Ngannou departed from the UFC in January 2023. Contract negotiations between Ngannou and the promotion broke down over terms.
The UFC reportedly offered Ngannou the largest contract for any heavyweight in company history. Ngannou’s demands remained unmet during negotiations. Dana White later accused the fighter of avoiding a bout with Jones.
Ngannou subsequently signed with the Professional Fighters League. He has since competed in boxing matches. His departure created professional distance between himself and UFC leadership.
White House Event Plans
Dana White has publicly committed to assembling the greatest fight card ever for the White House event. The unprecedented venue would bring mainstream attention beyond the sport’s typical audience. This unique setting raises questions about which fights would justify the historic location.
The combination of Jones’ accomplishments and Ngannou’s knockout power would create a major spectacle. Jones has dominated across two weight classes throughout his career. Ngannou built his reputation on devastating finishing ability.
Pereira has emerged as one of the UFC’s biggest current stars. His interest in moving up to face Jones has generated discussion among fans. The Brazilian champion previously competed at middleweight before capturing the light heavyweight title.
Career Paths Diverge
Ngannou’s current focus on boxing complicates any potential UFC return. He has expressed interest in continuing opportunities outside traditional MMA. These career choices create additional barriers beyond his strained relationship with UFC leadership.
The former champion also commented on other UFC action during his interview. He discussed the controversial ending to Tom Aspinall versus Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. That fight concluded with an eye poke that sparked debate about a potential rematch.
Ngannou defeated Gane before leaving the UFC. The two former teammates turned rivals during Ngannou’s championship reign. His willingness to discuss current UFC events shows continued engagement with the sport.
Ngannou’s boxing career has taken him away from the octagon where he built his reputation. The financial opportunities and different challenges in boxing have kept him focused on that discipline. His comments about Jones suggest the right circumstances could bring him back to MMA for one specific fight.
