At the PFL 5 card in Atlanta on Friday night, Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou encountered each other face-to-face.
Although the likelihood of these two heavyweights ever clashing in the ring appears slim, especially in the foreseeable future, they did not shy away from a verbal spar. Jones playfully warned Ngannou, “You’re not ready for this fight,” as they continued to chat and grin, with PFL president Ray Sefo vigilantly observing the situation.
At one juncture, both heavyweights declared themselves as the king of their division, leading to a handshake and Jones’s addendum of “we’ll see.”
The discussion progressed, with Jones questioning Ngannou about his wrestling training and adding that it would take more than just a year to prepare for his caliber of grappling. Ngannou retorted that he had pursued a fight with Jones during his last two years at UFC, but Jones was never available. To this, Jones responded, “I needed to bulk up enough to give you a good fight.”
Despite their banter, the conversation remained friendly, and it did not escalate to any physical confrontation before Jones and Ngannou eventually went their separate ways.
This encounter might be remembered as the greatest missed opportunity for a fight, although future developments remain unpredictable.
In the meantime, Ngannou looks forward to his PFL debut, expected to take place in 2024, while Jones is eying a face-off with former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic later in the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou meeting
Where and when did Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou meet face-to-face?
Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou met face-to-face at the PFL 5 card in Atlanta on a Friday night in June 2023.
What was the nature of Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou’s interaction at the PFL 5 card?
Their interaction was mostly verbal sparring with playful banter and shared smiles. Despite some posturing about being the heavyweight king, there was no actual physical confrontation.
Did Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou agree to a fight?
No, there wasn’t a firm agreement to a fight. While the possibility was discussed, with both athletes expressing interest, it remains highly uncertain if a fight will ever take place.
What are Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou’s future plans?
Ngannou is looking forward to his PFL debut, expected to take place in 2024. On the other hand, Jon Jones is planning a face-off with former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic later in the year.
Was there any animosity between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou during their interaction?
No, despite their banter and competitive posturing, there was no real animosity or physical confrontation between them during their interaction.
More about Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou meeting
- Jon Jones’ career highlights
- Francis Ngannou’s UFC journey
- Professional Fighters League (PFL)
- Stipe Miocic’s UFC records
