Francis Ngannou (18-3) says the presence of Jon Jones behind the analyst desk at his fight on Saturday adds another layer to an already intriguing event.
Ngannou returns to MMA competition for the first time since stopping Renan Ferreira in October 2024, taking on Philipe Lins on a card headlined by Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano. Ngannou made clear that Jones’ attendance has gotten his attention: “It’s going to be very interesting to have Jon Jones in the same arena at night watching. It will be great. It adds to what I’m saying — this event is just like a one-of-a-kind event. Jon Jones never broadcast, did he?”
The two heavyweights never shared the Octagon despite both sides expressing interest during Ngannou’s UFC run. At the time, Jones was at odds with the UFC and Dana White publicly played down the chances of the fight happening. Ngannou ultimately vacated the heavyweight title when he departed the promotion in favour of boxing and a deal with PFL.