Jon Jones was impressive in his return to the octagon after a 20-month hiatus caused by tearing the tendon connecting his pectoral muscle to the bone. He defeated Stipe Miocic via third-round TKO at UFC 309, marking his first title defense since making the move to the heavyweight division.
Francis Ngannou, who many believed would be the fighter to welcome 'Bones' to the weight class, recently shared that they both want the matchup. Speaking to TMZ Sports, 'The Predator' stated:
"As he said, he only talks about the UFC business. I think we're all about that. He's in the promotion deal and I'm in the promotion deal and if those two promotions come along and can figure out a way. Us talking about established champions or not would not help. I think for right now, his only options [are] in his roster and my options are in my roster. That's just how it is. It's not what we want or would like to have."
Ngannou continued:
"It doesn't matter much, but the reality is we both know we both want this fight, for sure. And it would be a good fight for us. There's more to this, like legacy and everything. I mean, I can finish my career at some point, but it will always be great to know that, okay, you faced that guy - that guy who is the best in the sport, to ever do the sport."
Check out Francis Ngannou's comments on facing Jon Jones below (3:29):
Ngannou added that despite his belief that he could defeat Jones, he believes the heavyweight champion is the greatest fighter of all time. While the two once appeared on a collision course, 'The Predator's' departure from the UFC makes it unlikely that fans will ever see them share the octagon.
Jon Jones backs Jamahal Hill to beat Jiri Prochazka
Jon Jones recently shared his opinion on the announced UFC 311 clash between Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill. Speaking to The Schmo, 'Bones' revealed that he believes the latter will emerge victorious, stating:
"I think Jamahal Hill will win. Jiri has really unorthodox striking, but Jamahal seems like the more technical, more clean striker and I'm a big fan of basic techniques. And Jamahal has a really strong, basic, clean kickboxing style."
Check out Jon Jones' comments on Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill below (2:50):
Prochazka and Hill will enter the octagon for the first time since their respective losses to Alex Pereira.