Jon Jones could be fighting for UFC gold again upon his return to the Octagon.
Jones hasn’t competed since Feb. 2020. He had a successful UFC Light Heavyweight Title defense against Dominick Reyes. “Bones” ended up vacating the title in order to focus on bulking up for a move to the heavyweight division.
Things haven’t exactly been smooth between Jones and the UFC brass, however. Jones was none too pleased with the amount of money the UFC was offering him for a move to heavyweight. He even hired former Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer to be his advisor for the negotiation process.
Jon Jones Fighting For UFC Gold Soon?
During an interview with Brett Okamoto of ESPN, UFC President Dana White said Jon Jones might be competing for interim gold in his heavyweight debut (h/t MMAJunkie.com).
“I haven’t thought about it at all, but yeah, it sounds like something we would do. Not until we know what Francis is gonna do or what’s gonna happen, but if that’s the case, if he ends up sitting out for a year, Jon could come right in and fight for a title.”
Francis Ngannou is the reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion. He hasn’t been happy with the terms of his UFC contract. Ngannou had his last fight on the deal when he defeated Ciryl Gane back in January. With that said, the champion’s clause is now in effect.
Ngannou has made it clear that he’s willing to let the clause expire if he and the UFC can’t come to terms. Ngannou’s major gripes are the inability to box for another promotion despite being an independent contractor and fighter pay.