A major discussion in mixed martial arts began after Jon Jones publicly asked to be released from his deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. The request came shortly after comments made by UFC leadership about his future in the sport.
Jones shared his message on the social platform X. In that statement he said that if the promotion truly believes his career as a fighter is finished, he would prefer to move on and leave the organization.
“If the UFC truly feels like I’m done, then I respectfully ask to be released from my contract today,” Jones wrote on X. “No more spins, no more games.”
Dana White Addresses Jones’ Status
The situation developed after Dana White spoke with reporters following a recent event. During that conversation White explained that Jones was not seriously considered for a place on the UFC Freedom 250 card scheduled for June.
White also referred to Jones discussing health issues such as arthritis in previous interviews. When he was asked if it would be fair to think of Jones as retired from competition, White replied that the idea would be reasonable.
Those remarks became widely discussed and eventually led to Jones posting his message about leaving the promotion.
Francis Ngannou Shows Support
Soon after Jones shared his statement, Francis Ngannou publicly offered his support. The former UFC heavyweight champion wrote his own message on X while reacting to the situation.
“Watching this story unfold yesterday was very interesting,” Ngannou wrote on X. “I have lots to say, but for now, Jonny boy, if you manage to get your freedom, then let me know. You deserve that $30M+ after everything you’ve done for the sport, and they should be rolling out the RED CARPET for you.”
For several years, many followers of the sport hoped to see Jones compete against Ngannou. When both athletes were part of the UFC roster, conversations about a potential matchup took place.
Despite strong interest from fans, the contest was never arranged. Over time both fighters discussed the situation in interviews, with each offering different explanations about why the fight never became reality.
Because of that history, Ngannou’s public support for Jones renewed interest in the possibility of the two fighters meeting someday.
Watching this story unfold yesterday was very interesting. I have lots to say, but for now, Jonny boy, if you manage to get your freedom, then let me know. You deserve that $30M+ after everything you’ve done for the sport, and they should be rolling out the RED CARPET for you. https://t.co/K0WdvlURUs
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) March 10, 2026
Ngannou’s Next Fight
Ngannou is currently preparing for another appearance after leaving the Professional Fighters League. His next fight will happen under the promotion of Most Valuable Promotions.
He is scheduled to face Philipe Lins on a fight card that also features Ronda Rousey competing against Gina Carano. The event will be available to viewers through Netflix.
At the moment, Jones’ situation with the UFC has not been resolved. The promotion has not announced whether his request for release will be granted.
If Jones becomes a free agent, it could open the door for several opportunities in the sport. One possibility that many fans continue to discuss is a future matchup between Jones and Ngannou.
For now, the conversation continues as the MMA world waits to see what decision will be made regarding Jones and his contract status.
