UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones has suggested that former champion Francis Ngannou could potentially return to the UFC despite their contentious separation.
Speaking on the Full Send Podcast, Jones offered his perspective on the situation that has captivated MMA fans since Ngannou’s departure from the promotion in early 2023.
“I think Dana gets things done,”
Jones stated candidly,
“and I think business speaks before emotions.”
Jones’ comments come amid ongoing speculation about Ngannou’s fighting future. The Cameroonian powerhouse left the UFC as heavyweight champion, relinquishing his title rather than signing a new contract, before eventually joining the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in a groundbreaking deal.
Despite the seemingly burned bridges, Jones believes reconciliation remains possible if approached correctly.
“If Francis presents himself in a humble way, I think he could very easily be back in the UFC,”
Jones suggested.
When directly asked if he believes there’s a chance Ngannou returns to the UFC, Jones was unequivocal:
“Yeah, absolutely.”
The champion elaborated on why he thinks UFC President Dana White might reconsider bringing Ngannou back into the fold despite their public falling out.
“Dana White, he’s one of the best sports minds in recent history for a reason and money talks,”
Jones explained.
“Francis brings eyes, and I’m sure Dana will be interested.”
Jones also reflected on his own sometimes turbulent relationship with White, suggesting that time can heal professional rifts.
“I feel like I’m an example of, you know, people, they grow and they mature and time changes things, time heals all,”
Jones said.
“There were moments of my career where I felt like Dana absolutely hated me. And now I feel like, you know, he’s a big advocate for me.”
The revelation comes at an interesting time in the heavyweight landscape, with Jones holding the UFC title while Ngannou has ventured into both PFL MMA and professional boxing. A potential return would dramatically shake up the division and possibly set up the long-awaited superfight between Jones and Ngannou that fans never got to see.
While White has previously seemed firm on Ngannou’s departure, Jones’ comments suggest the door may not be completely closed on one of the most dominant heavyweights in UFC history making a dramatic return to the octagon.
