Jon Jones once again reinforces career break: 'I don't intend to fight anytime soon'

Light heavyweight champion confirms absence from the organization until he receives an increase in his salary to perform

Considered by many to be the best MMA fighter of all time, Jon Jones He is taking seriously the idea of ​​interrupting his career for an indefinite period of time. After conflicting with UFC management, the light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg) reinforced that he will not perform again until the amount he receives for fights is reviewed.

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“I don’t plan on fighting anytime soon. I have no interest in performing in the UFC until I receive what I believe I deserve”, said the North American in an interview with the 'Wild Ride' podcast.

'Bones' standoff with Ultimate began after the athlete was denied his request to face the 'giant' Francis Ngannou in a superfight in the heavyweight division (up to 120,2kg.). At the time, the organization's president, Dana White, publicly criticized the amount requested by Jones to promote the match, claiming that it was around US$30 million (around R$160,8 million).

At the time, White even stated that being the best of all time does not guarantee such a high payment. The 'boss', then, when rejecting the challenge, stated that Jon should remain in his current category, give the rematch to Dominick reyes or face Jan Blachowicz, defending his belt.

Irritated, Jones stated that he intends to take a break from his career and can only act in 2021, in a possible confrontation against the number one middleweight (up to 83,9 kg.), Israel adesanya. While there is no agreement with the bosses, 'Bones' tried to justify the request for a raise.

“I’m not asking for anything outrageous. I know we're in a pandemic, and I know when you're a multimillionaire and you're asking for more, it makes you look like a greedy person. I'm very aware of all of this, but I'm also very aware that I have the voice and the platform to make changes,” said the American.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, the light heavyweight champion tried to suggest greater recognition for other athletes with less prestige within the organization. According to Jones, there are fighters who are facing serious financial crises during the pandemic.

“Most guys are in a much worse position and can't publicly say, 'I have a second job; I borrowed money from my parents'. I know a lot of athletes who are living at the 'Jackson Wink MMA' gym (Jon's team) because they can't afford to have their own apartment. They are UFC fighters. So, that's sad”, concluded 'Bones'.

Jones has not performed since February of this year, when he defeated Reyes in a unanimous decision by the judges. The result of the clash, however, was widely criticized by fans and the specialized press, who claimed that Dominick was the real winner of the clash.

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