TLDR
- Francis Ngannou says a fight between himself and Jon Jones would be the biggest fight of all time
- The 39-year-old former UFC heavyweight champion made the claim while discussing potential matchups for the White House UFC event
- Ngannou left the UFC in January 2023 after contract disputes with Dana White
- The fighter rates a Jones matchup above other high-profile options like Jones vs Alex Pereira
- Despite poor relations with UFC leadership, Ngannou believes he is still the rightful heavyweight champion
Francis Ngannou Claims Jon Jones Fight Would Be Biggest in Combat Sports History
Francis Ngannou has made his position clear on what would create the most anticipated matchup in combat sports. The former UFC heavyweight champion recently stated that a fight between himself and Jon Jones would surpass any other pairing the promotion could put together.
When asked to compare Jon Jones facing Alex Pereira versus a bout between Jones and himself, Ngannou’s answer was direct. He said the biggest fight of all time could only happen with Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou. The 39-year-old fighter made these comments while discussing potential matchups for the upcoming White House UFC event.
Ngannou departed from the UFC in January 2023 after failing to reach an agreement on contract terms. The split between the heavyweight fighter and UFC president Dana White created distance that makes future collaboration unlikely. Despite this history, White has promised to deliver the greatest fight card ever assembled for the White House event.
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
The former champion believes he is still the rightful UFC heavyweight champion since he left the company without losing his title. This claim adds another layer to his interest in facing Jones. Before Ngannou left the UFC, many fans and analysts considered Jones versus Ngannou the most compelling heavyweight fight available.
Other Fighters Eyeing Jon Jones
Ngannou is not alone in wanting to face Jones at the White House event. Alex Pereira has also expressed interest in fighting Jones, calling it a win-win situation. Tom Aspinall represents another potential opponent with history involving the former heavyweight champion.
Jones remains one of the most accomplished fighters in UFC history with victories across two weight classes. His star power combined with Ngannou’s knockout ability would create a major spectacle. The combination of elite skills and years of fan anticipation would provide the elements needed for a historic event.
Current Circumstances
Ngannou made his comments during a period when he was engaged in a public disagreement with boxer Jake Paul. Despite this distraction, the Cameroonian fighter maintained focus on what he considers the top achievement in combat sports. His confidence reflects his understanding of his own drawing power in the sport.
The White House UFC event adds an unprecedented element to any potential fight card. Hosting a combat sports event at such a venue would generate mainstream attention beyond the sport’s traditional audience. This unique setting makes the question of which fights deserve inclusion more important.
Ngannou currently competes in boxing and has expressed interest in continuing opportunities outside traditional MMA. These career choices complicate any potential return to the octagon. The practical challenges of making this matchup happen extend beyond the strained relationship with UFC leadership.
Dana White’s promise to create the greatest fight card ever leaves room for speculation about potential reconciliation. The business realities suggest such a reunion remains unlikely. However, the sport has seen unexpected partnerships when financial incentives were involved.
Weighing In On Recent Action
Ngannou also discussed the Tom Aspinall versus Ciryl Gane fight at UFC 321. That bout ended with a controversial eye poke that left many debating whether a rematch would be necessary. His willingness to discuss other matchups shows his continued engagement with the MMA landscape.
Ngannou’s perspective carries weight given his history with Gane, whom he defeated before leaving the promotion. The former teammates turned rivals provided a compelling storyline during Ngannou’s championship reign. His comments demonstrate his ongoing involvement in the sport despite competing outside the UFC.
Jones has shown interest in returning to the octagon since the announcement of the White House event. Details continue to be shared about the showcase and the first renderings of the setup have been released. The world’s top active fighters are hoping to compete on the card, including those outside the UFC.
Jon Jones now has released his promo to get a fight with Alex Pereira 🧐pic.twitter.com/5IYwdZ0lUg
— MMA On Point (@mmaonpoint) November 12, 2025
When asked about watching a potential Jones versus Pereira fight, Ngannou acknowledged he would tune in. However, he made clear it wouldn’t carry the same impact as a Jones-Ngannou matchup. His assessment reflects the long-standing anticipation for this particular fight.
The June 14 date for the White House UFC event has generated widespread interest. Ngannou made his blockbuster proposal for this date. Despite poor relations with UFC leadership, he maintains dreams of fighting under the promotion again.
