Dana White Breaks Silence on Saudi Arabia’s Bold Plans for Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou

The combat sports world is buzzing with speculation as UFC President Dana White finally addressed the growing rumors surrounding a blockbuster fight between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou—potentially taking place in Saudi Arabia. For years, fans have dreamed of a showdown between arguably the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, Jon Jones, and the most feared knockout artist in the sport, Francis Ngannou. Now, with Saudi Arabia’s massive financial backing and influence, the dream fight might become a reality.

The Fight That Got Away—Jones vs. Ngannou’s Complicated History

This isn’t the first time Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou have been linked to a mega-fight.

• In 2020, when Ngannou was bulldozing through the UFC heavyweight division, fans began clamoring for a clash between him and Jon Jones, who was preparing to move up from light heavyweight to heavyweight.

• However, contract disputes with the UFC delayed Jones’ heavyweight debut, and Ngannou went on to win the UFC heavyweight title in 2021.

• In early 2023, after a bitter falling out with the UFC over pay disputes, Ngannou left the organization and later signed a historic deal with the PFL (Professional Fighters League).

With Ngannou no longer in the UFC, a fight between him and Jones seemed impossible—until now.

Saudi Arabia’s Big Move—Why They Want This Fight

Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as the new epicenter of combat sports, hosting high-profile boxing matches and now setting their sights on MMA’s biggest fights. With billions in funding, the country is aggressively pursuing marquee names to bolster its status as a combat sports powerhouse.

Reports suggest that Saudi officials are offering an unprecedented financial package to make Jones vs. Ngannou happen—possibly including:

✅ Record-breaking purses for both fighters
✅ UFC-PFL cooperation for a special event
✅ A global superfight that transcends MMA

The potential financial incentives could be too big for all parties to ignore.

Dana White Finally Responds—What He Said About Saudi Arabia’s Offer

After weeks of silence, Dana White finally addressed the rumors, making it clear that while nothing is official, the UFC is always open to the biggest fights.

“Listen, I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—if the fight makes sense, and everyone wants it, we’ll find a way to make it happen,” White stated.

However, he also downplayed the likelihood of immediate negotiations, adding:

“Jon Jones is focused on his recovery. Ngannou is doing his thing with PFL. We’ll see what happens, but right now, nothing’s set in stone.”

Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou—How the Fight Would Look

A Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou showdown is the type of fight that would shatter records. Both fighters have distinct strengths, making this one of the most intriguing matchups in MMA history.

🔥 Jon Jones—The Tactical Genius

• Record: 27-1 (1 NC)

• Strengths: Elite wrestling, high fight IQ, unpredictable striking

• Key Weapon: Ability to neutralize power punchers with control

💥 Francis Ngannou—The Powerhouse

• Record: 17-3

• Strengths: Unmatched knockout power, improved takedown defense

• Key Weapon: Devastating one-punch KO ability

Jones’ fight IQ and grappling would be his biggest advantages, while Ngannou’s raw power and explosiveness could end the fight in an instant. The stylistic clash is what makes this fight so legendary.

Will Saudi Arabia Make the Impossible Happen?

With Saudi Arabia’s resources and influence, nothing seems impossible. They have already lured the biggest names in boxing, including Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder. Now, they are setting their sights on MMA’s biggest stars.

If the UFC and PFL can strike a deal, the world might finally witness one of the most anticipated fights in combat sports history.

The ball is now in Dana White’s court—and the world is watching