Francis Ngannou is ready for the Jon Jones bout: Could UFC and PFL make it happen?

The highly anticipated matchup between Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones continues to excite the MMA world. Ngannou, now competing under the Professional Fighters League (PFL) banner, and Jones, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion, have both hinted at a potential showdown that could solidify their legacies. While fans eagerly wait, the question remains: Will the UFC and PFL make it happen?

Ngannou’s Challenge: A Fight for Legacy

Francis Ngannou reignited interest in a potential clash with Jon Jones through a pointed response to a recent tweet. Jones had addressed critics accusing him of dodging interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, asserting his dominance. Ngannou supported Jones’ statement but emphasized that the fight everyone wants still lies ahead.“

There’s only one fight, the right fight that will multiply your blessings,” Ngannou tweeted, ending with the hashtag #NgannouVsJones. His words underscore his belief that this matchup isn’t just desirable—it’s pivotal for both fighters’ legacies.

The MMA Dream Match Fans Crave

A fight between Ngannou and Jones has been a dream for MMA fans for years. Both are at the pinnacle of the sport: Ngannou, known for his devastating knockout power, and Jones, celebrated for his technical mastery and dominance across two divisions. Their paths nearly crossed in the UFC before Ngannou left in 2023 to join PFL and pursue boxing.

Even though they now fight under separate promotions, the appeal of this matchup remains as strong as ever. Both athletes are ranked among the top heavyweights globally—Ngannou at No. 2 and Jones at No. 3 in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings. For fans, this clash represents a once-in-a-lifetime event that transcends promotional boundaries.

PFL CEO Peter Murray Calls Out UFC

PFL CEO Peter Murray has openly expressed his desire to see this fight come to fruition. During the 2024 PFL World Championships in Saudi Arabia, Murray put the spotlight on the UFC, asking whether they would be willing to collaborate. “Does the UFC want to step up to it or not?” he questioned, emphasizing the potential for this matchup to become one of the biggest events in MMA history.

Ngannou has already proven himself as a global star, dominating in the PFL and gaining attention through high-profile boxing bouts. A fight with Jones would further elevate his status and attract unprecedented attention from both MMA and boxing audiences.

Will UFC and PFL Make It Happen?

The biggest roadblock to Ngannou vs. Jones is the long-standing rivalry between promotions. The UFC has historically avoided cross-promotional fights to protect its brand. However, the growing demand for this blockbuster showdown might push both organizations to the negotiating table.

This fight isn’t just about two elite athletes—it’s an opportunity for MMA to showcase the best of the best, breaking barriers in the sport. Both Ngannou and Jones are ready and willing. Now, it’s up to the UFC and PFL to deliver on the fans’ dream.

By addressing fans’ desires and leveraging their shared legacies, a Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones fight could become the defining moment of modern MMA. Whether it happens depends entirely on whether both promotions can put competition aside for the good of the sport.