The UFC world is abuzz with the possibility of heavyweight champion Jon Jones facing interim champion Tom Aspinall. However, before Aspinall emerged as a potential opponent, the most anticipated matchup in the sport was between Jones and former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. The departure of Ngannou from the UFC under contentious circumstances seemingly ended any chance of this fight happening. Yet, the idea of Jones vs. Ngannou continues to captivate fans and resurfaces occasionally in discussions.
Recently, speculation about this dream matchup reignited after a tweet by Ngannou. In it, he appeared to defend Jones against allegations of avoiding a fight with Aspinall. Ngannou tweeted, “Blessings make haters uncomfortable, but they can’t change it. There’s only one fight, the right fight that will multiply your blessings. #NgannouVSJones.” This cryptic statement reignited hopes for the clash, with some even considering the possibility of a UFC co-promotion with Ngannou’s current organization, the PFL, to make it happen.
Jones has faced criticism for reportedly being hesitant to fight Aspinall, with some fans suggesting he fears losing to the Englishman. Aspinall’s combination of physicality, skills, and confidence makes him a formidable challenge, potentially threatening Jones’ near-perfect record. However, Ngannou dismissed the idea of Jones ducking Aspinall, suggesting this narrative is a product of UFC spin. He drew parallels to his own experience, recalling how the UFC framed him as scared to face Jones after his exit from the promotion.
Ngannou’s comments highlighted his belief that the UFC and its president, Dana White, are heavily biased in favor of Jones. This perception has led fans to accuse White of prioritizing Jones’ interests, further fueling debates over the potential matchup between Jones and Aspinall.
Amid this speculation, Jones has confirmed ongoing negotiations with the UFC for a fight against Aspinall. However, he has made it clear that he expects significant compensation for the risk, referring to it as “f**k you money.” Jones has also hinted at retirement if his financial demands are not met. If he retires without facing Aspinall, it would disrupt the heavyweight title’s lineal succession, leaving a gap in the division’s history.
The heavyweight division’s future may gain further clarity after UFC 310, where #2-ranked Ciryl Gane is set to face #3-ranked Alexander Volkov. The winner of this fight could emerge as another contender for the title, adding more complexity to the division’s landscape.
Despite Ngannou’s apparent openness to facing Jones, this matchup remains highly unlikely. Jones’ current eight-fight contract with the UFC would require Dana White’s approval for any bout outside the promotion. Given White’s strained relationship with Ngannou following his departure, such an agreement seems improbable. Fans are left to wonder if the much-anticipated Jones-Ngannou fight will ever materialize or if it will remain one of the UFC’s greatest “what-if”scenarios.