F. Ngannou in a post-event press conference. (Photo: Reproduction/YouTube)
Speculated as likely responsible for receiving Jon Jones in heavyweights (up to 120,2kg), the champion Francis Ngannou was open to facing the mixed martial arts legend. The title holder said he would love to face 'Bones' but asked the UFC to first resolve his contractual situation with him. The statement was given in an interview with 'Combate'.
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“Well, this is the plan (fight with Jon Jones in March), but when you make a plan, you have to go step by step. Let's settle the contract first. It's still pending (the contract renewal with the UFC). We're still working on it. We haven't finished yet. I always wanted to stay in the UFC. I just want things the right way. I just want a better (contract) structure to have a better future. I'm excited. I'm excited to return to the octagon, but in good conditions, with a good structure. He would be a good 'money fight'. But there are many 'money fights'. There could be many 'money fights', said the Cameroonian.
Despite making it clear that he would like to renew with the UFC, the heavyweight champion said he would not give up on being released to box.
“I have to be allowed to box on my next contract. It's my decision, whether they like it or not. I want to box. I'm going to box because I'm free and I decide what I'm going to do in the future”, concluded Ngannou.
Heavyweight champion since March 2021, the 'Predator' had the last fight of his current contract last January against Cyryl Gane, then owner of the interim belt. Since then, Ngannou has been undergoing treatment for a serious knee injury, but has always made it clear that he will not renew with the UFC unless there is a salary increase, a clear demonstration of dissatisfaction with the values of the current agreement with the organization.
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