TLDR
- Jon Jones says he would accept a non-main event spot at the UFC White House card for the first time since 2011
- Jones is interested in fighting Alex Pereira at the event without a title on the line
- UFC CEO Dana White has expressed hesitancy about giving Jones a main event spot due to his legal history
- Jones recently visited Russia and Chechnya where he’s working on an ambassador deal
- Jones also mentioned he was approached about a charity grappling match with Daniel Cormier
Jon Jones is making a rare concession in his fighting career. The former UFC heavyweight champion said he would accept a co-main event spot at the upcoming UFC White House card. This marks a major shift for Jones, who hasn’t fought outside the main event since 2011.
Jones expressed interest in fighting Alex Pereira at the White House event. When asked if he would be willing to co-headline, Jones responded with an emphatic “Absolutely.” The fight would not be for a title, which is unusual for a fighter of Jones’ status.
UFC CEO Dana White has been reluctant to give Jones the main event spot. White cited Jones’ legal history and past issues with pulling out of fights. White told reporters he doesn’t trust Jones with the responsibility of headlining such a high-profile event.
Jones last fought at UFC 309 in November 2024. He defeated Stipe Miocic in what became his first and only UFC heavyweight title defense. The promotion later stripped him of the championship after he initially announced his retirement.
Jones quickly reversed his retirement decision. He rejoined the UFC’s drug testing pool and began campaigning for a spot on the White House card. His efforts to persuade White have been ongoing since the event was announced in August.
Jones Makes Flexibility Clear
The potential matchup with Pereira has gained traction in recent weeks. Pereira reclaimed the light heavyweight championship at UFC 320 and called out Jones. He specifically mentioned wanting a super fight at the White House event.
Jones responded positively to Pereira’s challenge on social media. He wrote that he would be down to bring the highest skill level to the White House. Jones said he appreciated the respect Pereira showed and suggested they “dance.”
Jones indicated he is ready to fight. He said he’s getting in shape, is lean, and completely capable of hopping into a training camp. Jones added that the decision is somewhat out of his hands but that life is good either way.
Russia Trip and Other Fighting Plans
Jones recently traveled to Russia and Chechnya. He visited with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and celebrated Kadyrov’s son’s 18th birthday. Jones said he was invited by Kadyrov and described him as a great host.
During the trip, Jones revealed he’s signing a major ambassador deal in Russia. He said he cannot announce the details yet but expects to be a regular visitor to the country. Jones spent time with UFC fighter Khamzat Chimaev during the visit.
Jones also mentioned another potential matchup outside the UFC. He said he was approached about a charity grappling match with Daniel Cormier. Jones said he responded “absolutely” to the idea and referenced their 3-0 record in favor of himself.
White has not announced specific matchups for the White House card. He stated he won’t make announcements until February 2026. White promised to make it the “baddest” card ever but hasn’t revealed which fighters will headline.
Conor McGregor is reportedly a frontrunner for the main event spot. The UFC White House event represents a historic moment for the promotion. The exact date and full lineup remain under wraps.
