Dana White On Co-Promoting Jon Jones Vs. Francis Ngannou: ‘I’m Not Interested’

NEW YORK, NY–Dana White is not interested in co-promoting a Jon Jones-Francis Ngannou fight with the PFL.

During the UFC 295 post-fight press conference, White was asked if a cross-fight bout with the PFL–pitting Jones against Ngannou–was possible. Rather succinctly, White articulated how that bout has no chance of happening.

“I’m not interested,” said White. “We tried to make that fight [when Ngannou was still under his UFC contract]. They didn’t want to do it. It’s done. He doesn’t fight here anymore. I’m not interested.

“We’ve got fights one, two, and three [for top gates in Madison Square Garden history]. They can’t sell a f------ gate.”

Dana White is asked if he would co-promote with PFL to do Jones/Ngannou.

Dana: It's done, he doesn't fight here anymore. I'm not interested. pic.twitter.com/8cVocDMmAu
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) November 12, 2023

The question, which White deemed the “dumb question of the night”, certainly piqued his interest.

“I tried to make the fight here,” said White. “They didn’t want to do it. But I should co-promote with like a Bellator or a PFL? Why should I do that?”

In terms of the future of the UFC heavyweight division, Tom Aspinall won the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295. White also confirmed that Jones, once healthy, will defend the heavyweight belt against Stipe Miocic.