TLDR
- Jon Jones says UFC president Dana White is blocking a potential fight with Alex Pereira
- Both Jones and Pereira have expressed interest in fighting each other
- Jones and White’s relationship has been strained after Jones retired then unretired
- UFC is discussing booking Pereira against Ciryl Gane instead for an interim heavyweight title
- White has previously said Jones must fight Tom Aspinall or no one
Sources: MMA Mania | Bloody Elbow | Bloody Elbow
Jon Jones says UFC president Dana White is blocking a potential superfight with Alex Pereira, despite both fighters expressing interest in the matchup.
In a recent interview with Red Corner MMA from Thailand, Jones revealed that White is standing in the way of the fight fans want to see. “Pereira wants to fight me but I don’t think Dana White’s gonna allow that to happen,” Jones said. “It’ll be interesting to see what Dana wants.”
The comments come as Jones films a reality show in Thailand. Both fighters have publicly stated their desire to face each other in the octagon.
Jon Jones reveals Dana White obstacle to Alex Pereira fight in new update https://t.co/C8vrwrZV0M
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) January 9, 2026
Recent Tension Between Jones and UFC
The relationship between Jones and White has grown strained in recent months. White put together a $30 million payday with help from Saudi Arabia for Jones to fight interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
After the money was arranged, Jones announced his retirement and gave up the heavyweight title. A week later, Jones changed his mind when Donald Trump announced the UFC White House card.
White has repeatedly said Jones is not reliable enough to fight at the White House event. The UFC president has expressed frustration with Jones backing out of the Aspinall fight after the historic payday was secured.
Pereira stepped up and offered to fight Jones at the White House card. White has not accepted that proposal either.
Pereira May Face Gane Instead
The UFC is now discussing a different fight for Pereira. Reports suggest the promotion may book Pereira against heavyweight Ciryl Gane for an interim heavyweight title.
Tom Aspinall is out for an unknown period due to eye surgery. This opens the door for Pereira to potentially become the first UFC fighter to win titles in three weight divisions.
Joe Rogan has mentioned hearing talk about Pereira moving up to heavyweight at around 240 pounds. Pereira currently competes at light heavyweight.
White has previously stated that Jones must fight Aspinall or nothing else. The UFC president appears committed to not letting Jones avoid top contenders.
Jones is considered by many to be the greatest MMA fighter of all time. However, his future in the sport remains unclear as he waits for White’s decision.
Pereira has emerged as one of the UFC’s biggest stars with his exciting fighting style. The Brazilian fighter has won titles at middleweight and light heavyweight.
The proposed superfight would pit two of the sport’s biggest names against each other. Fan demand for the matchup has been high on social media.
White controls nearly all major fight decisions in the UFC. His approval is required for any major bout to move forward.
Jones told reporters he understands the situation is out of his hands. The fighter acknowledged that White will make the final call on his next opponent.
