Francis Ngannou Supports Jon Jones After UFC Talks Collapse: “They Should Be Rolling Out the Red Carpet for You.”

Francis Ngannou has publicly sided with Jon Jones following a recent pay disagreement within the UFC, drawing parallels between their respective high-stakes heavyweight sagas. This week, Jones used social media to counter remarks made by Dana White concerning his absence from the UFC's anticipated "Freedom 250" event, scheduled for June 14 at the White House.

Jon Jones' Latest Disagreement with the UFC

White had previously questioned why Jones was not involved, implying that the former champion was neither actively negotiating nor ready to compete. Jones retorted, stating that despite his team's genuine discussions with the promotion for the event, he felt undervalued after reducing his initial financial demands. He then intensified the situation by publicly requesting release from his UFC contract, asserting that if the company truly believed he was finished, they should simply "let him go with no more spins, no more games."

Francis Ngannou's Message and Shared History

Ngannou, who departed the UFC as heavyweight champion in early 2023 due to his own disputes over compensation and control, has been keenly observing these developments. Since leaving the promotion, he has headlined major crossover boxing events and secured a lucrative deal with the PFL, which permits him to pursue boxing alongside MMA. His next appearance is slated for Netflix. At the time of his departure, Ngannou cited respect, long-term financial security, and the freedom to pursue boxing independently as key motivators for relinquishing his UFC belt.

Now, as Jones once again openly clashes with White, Ngannou has offered his support via social media. On X, he posted: "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 reignites discussions about whether Jones should command eight-figure guarantees for high-profile heavyweight bouts, a figure previously mentioned in negotiations for potential fights against Ngannou and, more recently, Tom Aspinall.

Tom Aspinall, Eddie Hearn, and the $30 Million Figure

Current UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has also weighed in on the discussion regarding Jones’ market value. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Aspinall disclosed that the UFC had reportedly offered Jones approximately $30 million for a heavyweight title fight against him, a deal Jones initially accepted before it ultimately fell through. Aspinall expressed his disbelief that Jones isn't receiving what he considers appropriate financial recognition, given his extensive record of championship victories and years as a pay-per-view headliner.

Aspinall himself has a complex relationship with the promotion concerning his own remuneration and standing. He recently confirmed his signing with boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, potentially opening doors for future crossover opportunities and enhancing his leverage in future discussions with the UFC. While still under UFC contract, Aspinall has openly sought a better deal and has used his platform to champion Jones’ right to negotiate assertively with the company.

A Fight Over Leverage

Collectively, Jones' demand for release, Ngannou's public endorsement, and Aspinall's observations underscore a critical power struggle among the elite of MMA. Ngannou has already demonstrated that a champion can depart the UFC, secure lucrative boxing opportunities, and sign an MMA contract offering greater autonomy. Jones is now testing the limits of his star power within the constraints of a long-term UFC agreement. Meanwhile, Aspinall, as the reigning heavyweight champion, occupies a central position, publicly supporting Jones while exploring external partnerships that could reshape his own bargaining stance in the coming months.