Dana White Rejects Co-Promotion Idea for Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou Fight

UFC CEO Dana White has made it clear during theUFC 295 post-fight press conference that he has no interest in co-promoting a fight between Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones in the PFL. When asked about the possibility of co-promotion after Ngannou’s close boxing match against Tyson Fury, White dismissed the idea.

White stated, “I’m not interested in that. We tried to make that fight. They didn’t want to do it. It’s done. He doesn’t fight here anymore. I’m not interested.”

While there is nothing preventing the UFC from co-promoting with other organizations, White emphasized that the UFC is financially successful on its own, with record revenues and lucrative deals with sponsors like Bud Light. The UFC does not need to collaborate with a rival MMA organization for a one-off fight.

White also expressed his frustration with the idea, saying, “They can’t sell a f****** gate. It’s a stupid question. Why would I do that? I tried to make the fight here. They didn’t want to do it but I should co-promote with a Bellator or a PFL? Why should I do that? You win the dumb question of the night, congratulations sir.”

As for Jon Jones, he is expected to face former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic when he is ready to return, despite Tom Aspinall winning the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295. For Ngannou, his options in MMA are limited, and it seems that a fight against Jon Jones is no longer a realistic possibility.

What are your thoughts on Dana White’s approach to co-promotion in the world of MMA, especially when it comes to big-name fights like Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones? Do you believe co-promotion could benefit the fighters and the sport, or is it best for organizations to remain separate and competitive? Leave us a comment below.