Francis Ngannou becomes the latest to defend Jon Jones after calling for UFC release amid Dana White feud

One former UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou, came to the defense of another former titleholder (Jon Jones) against Dana White.

Former two-division UFC champion Jon Jones nearly broke the internet on Monday when he publicly called for his release from the promotion amidst recent back-and-forths with UFC CEO Dana White. After Jones’ exclusion from the upcoming White House card, the former UFC heavyweight champion didn’t hold back in a lengthy statement, as he accused White and the matchmakers of ‘lowballing’ him with a recent financial offer.

As of this writing, it remains unclear if Jones will get his desired release from the UFC. He’s been with the promotion since his UFC debut in 2008.

Jones isn’t the only current or former UFC champion that White has traded barbs with in recent years. In 2023, then-UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou couldn’t come to terms on a new contract following a lengthy dispute, leading to him parting ways with the UFC and signing with the Professional Fighters’ League.

Three years later, Jones is in a similar situation, and Ngannou didn’t take long to react to the possible divorce between the UFC and one of its greatest legends.

Francis Ngannou: Jon Jones deserved ‘red carpet’ from UFC financially

In a recent post to X, Ngannou reacted to Jones’ lengthy statement.

“Watching this story unfold yesterday was very interesting,” Ngannou said.

“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.”

Jones and Ngannou were linked to a potential super fight as early as 2020, when Jones vacated the UFC light heavyweight title for his full-time move to heavyweight. Jones and Ngannou have teased a potential showdown ever since, and if Jones becomes a free agent, the two giants could fight under the Most Valuable Promotions banner.

Will Jon Jones fight in the UFC again after his ongoing feud with Dana White? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!