Francis Ngannou Shoots Down Claim He Ran Away From Jon Jones Fight

For a considerable period, Francis Ngannou was highly esteemed as one of the top heavyweights in the UFC. In March 2021, he secured his place in UFC history by defeating Stipe Miocic and clinching the UFC Heavyweight Championship, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest of all time. Although Ngannou has since parted ways with the promotion, he shot down a claim that he ran away from fighting Jon Jones.

As previously reported, Francis Ngannou officially parted ways with the UFC. Right after that, Dana White claimed that Ngannou turned down a contract that would have made history in the UFC.

Despite the hype and anticipation surrounding a potential matchup between Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones, fans were left disappointed as the fight never materialized. Many had hoped to witness the dream bout between the two fighters in the Octagon, but it ultimately did not come to fruition.

While speaking with ESPN‘s Brett Okamoto, Francis Ngannou talked about Jon Jones’ UFC Heavyweight Title win against Cyril Gane last week. Ngannou decided to shoot down claims that he ran away from fighting Jon Jones.

Ngannou made it clear that he is not one to back down from a fight, stating that there is no opponent on Earth that he would shy away from. He emphasized that he is fully prepared to step into the Octagon and accept whatever outcome comes his way, as that is the nature of the sport.

While acknowledging Jon Jones’ status as a top fighter, Ngannou emphasized that he is not avoiding a potential matchup with him, stating that he would be willing to face him twice a month if needed.

“There is not a fight on Earth that I would back down for, I don’t care. I go there and whatever happen, happen. It’s the sport. And definitely Jon Jones is not the guy, I mean, he might be the best fighter ever, but it’s not the guy that I’m running away from, no. not him. I will fight Jon Jones twice a month.

We know Jon Jones with his drama. You know, I think he’s just being dramatic. He’s been out for how long, three years or something? And I have been calling him [out]. I remember even after I fought Stipe [Miocic], Dana said if it’s him watching that fight, he should move down to 185 [lbs]…But I don’t take that seriously.”

Francis Ngannou also doubts he will ever face Jon Jones in a fight. He also revealed his plans following his UFC departure. It remains to be seen how Ngannou will fare in other promotions in the coming months. Regardless, it’s a shame Ngannou and Jones never crossed paths.