Jon Jones has found some unexpected support as his feud with the UFC drags on.
After a reported $15 million offer led him to request his release from the promotion, Tom Aspinall was one of the first to speak up in support of ‘Bones’.
Other prominent names in MMA who have voiced their backing include Joe Rogan, Ronda Rousey and Francis Ngannou.
This isn’t the first time Ngannou has shown support for Jones, but he made it clear during an interview on Tuesday that he feels strongly about the issue. Asked if Jones should be earning more than $15 million per fight, he didn’t hesitate.
“Of course, Jon Jones deserves that,” Ngannou said on The Ariel Helwani Show. “Jon Jones has been with this organization for how long? Jon Jones has been the champion since he was 23, which is 15 years. Over 15 years?
If there is somebody that deserves something nowadays, like just even to pay him tribute, it’s Jon Jones. Jon Jones needs to get paid maybe not only for the fight that he’s fighting but what he has done for the sport. For where he has taken the sport.”
“Aren’t they out there bragging that he’s the GOAT? Man if the GOAT is not respected then who should we respect?” Ngannou continued.
Francis Ngannou’s next fight: date, opponent and promotion
Jon Jones may be weighing up his next move, but Francis Ngannou has a clear path forward.
Ngannou’s last appearance came at PFL Super Fights in October 2024, where he stopped Renan Ferreira.
Since then, he’s moved on from the PFL and signed with Most Valuable Promotions.
The 39-year-old will face Philipe Lins on the debut MMA event put together by Jake Paul’s company.
The main event of that card features Ronda Rousey against Gina Carano, taking place in Inglewood, California, on May 16.
Nate Diaz and Mike Perry are also set to meet on what is shaping up to be an entertaining 11-fight lineup.
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