Due to salary disparities, the UFC released heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou earlier this week, and as a free agent, this American fighter is exploring new possibilities, including boxing.
The predator was supposed to face the undefeated former UFC champion, Jon Jones, at the main event of UFC 285 at the T-Mobile Arena facility in Paradise, Nevada, on March 4, 2023, to defend his title.
Appreciate all of your support during this time. Full reaction to my UFC departure is live on my YouTube channelhttps://t.co/2M4TGbjUi6 pic.twitter.com/RBZvzWNxAh
— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) January 18, 2023
Now, Ciryl Gane is set to replace the Cameroonian to fight Jon Jones for the UFC heavyweight title in the coming month.
Recently, Jon Jones talked to Sports Illustrated regarding Francis Ngannou’s departure from the UFC while sharing his bad experience at the UFC.
Jones is happy that the predator knows how to negotiate and has shared that he was in the same situation three years ago when he had to fight for what he actually deserved, and Jones added that he respects everyone who fights for their own worth, so the 28-26-1, 1NC record holder confirmed that he is supporting Ngannou.
“I’m happy for Francis [Ngannou]. I’m glad that Francis knows his worth. No man has a right to shame another man for fighting for his worth. I was in a very similar situation as Francis as a light heavyweight. I was never happy with my salary. I had to sit out three years, and I missed a lot of times, but now we’re here. I encourage Francis on his journey, and I wish him all the best. Another company is going to be truly blessed to have him.”
Talking about a future matchup against Ngannou, Jones feels that their fight is something the supporters would love to watch, so he is positive about fighting the 20-17-3 record holder.
“I do believe my path will cross with Francis [Ngannou]. Dana White always gives the fans what they want to see, and a Jon Jones-Francis Ngannou fight will always be a fight of interest. So I’m not counting it out. I’ll keep an eye on Francis.”
