Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has publicly sided with Jon Jones in his ongoing pay dispute with the UFC, highlighting a recurring theme of athlete compensation at the sport’s highest level. The controversy ignited when Jon Jones took to social media to refute UFC President Dana White’s assertions regarding his absence from a high-profile event, reportedly scheduled for the White House on June 14.
Jon Jones’ Latest Standoff with the UFC
Dana White had previously suggested that Jones was no longer actively negotiating or ready to compete. Jones, however, countered that he and his team were indeed in talks for the event but felt undervalued, describing the promotion’s offer as “lowballed” even after he reduced his original asking price. Escalating the situation, Jones publicly demanded to be released from his UFC contract, asserting that if the company truly believed his fighting career was over, they should grant his freedom without further delays or “games.”
Francis Ngannou’s Endorsement and Shared Experience
Ngannou, who famously departed the UFC as heavyweight champion in early 2023 following his own financial and contractual disagreements, has closely followed Jones’ situation. Since his exit, Ngannou has successfully transitioned into lucrative crossover boxing matches and secured a deal with the PFL that allows him to pursue both boxing and MMA. At the time of his departure from the UFC, Ngannou emphasized that respect, long-term financial security, and the freedom to pursue boxing on his own terms were central to his decision to vacate the UFC belt.
Now, with Jones openly clashing with White once again, Ngannou extended his support via X (formerly Twitter). He wrote: “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.” This statement echoes long-standing discussions about whether Jones should receive eight-figure guarantees for major heavyweight contests, a figure previously mentioned in negotiations for potential bouts against Ngannou and, more recently, Tom Aspinall.
Tom Aspinall, Eddie Hearn, and the $30 Million Figure
Current interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has also weighed in on the debate surrounding Jones’ market value. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Aspinall revealed that the UFC had previously offered Jones approximately $30 million to face him in a heavyweight title bout. Jones reportedly accepted this offer, but the fight ultimately fell apart. Aspinall expressed his disbelief that Jones is not receiving what he considers appropriate financial recognition, given his extensive championship record and years as a pay-per-view headliner.
Aspinall himself has a complex relationship with the UFC regarding compensation and recognition. He recently confirmed signing with boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, a move that could open doors for future crossover opportunities and potentially provide him with increased leverage in his dealings with the UFC. While still under UFC contract, Aspinall has been vocal about seeking a better deal and has used his platform to defend Jones’ right to negotiate firmly with the company.
The Battle for Leverage
The combined actions—Jones’ request for release, Ngannou’s public endorsement, and Aspinall’s insights—underscore a significant power struggle for leverage at the pinnacle of mixed martial arts. Ngannou’s trajectory has already demonstrated that a champion can successfully leave the UFC, secure high-profile boxing paydays, and sign an MMA contract offering greater autonomy. Jones is now testing the limits of his own star power and influence within the constraints of his long-standing UFC agreement. Meanwhile, Aspinall, as the reigning heavyweight champion, finds himself in a pivotal position, publicly supporting Jones while strategically exploring external partnerships that could enhance his own negotiating stance in the coming months.
