Dana White has been thoroughly active on the Jon Jones matter. Moreover, the UFC President explains why Derrick Lewis will be the next opponent for Francis Ngannou.
Recently, there were speculations regarding a potential matchup between Stipe Miocic and Jon Jones. Moreover, the winner would then be the next in line for a shot at the heavyweight title. However, Dana White reveals that Jon has other plans.
Speaking to TMZ Sports, White has his say on the matter. “Absolutely we’ve moved on”. “Derrick Lewis is the guy that should be getting this title shot,” he adds. “This is the guy that’s beat Francis Ngannou, he’s next in line, he’s coming off great performances and that’s a wrap”. According to Dana, Jon has not done anything to warrant an immediate title shot.
Additionally, White dwells on what possibly lies ahead for Jon. “That’s up to Jon. He could absolutely fight again at 205. He said he wouldn’t fight Stipe, and now Derrick and Francis are fighting, so we’ll see how that pans out”. However, White also does not mind if Jones chooses to retire. In Dana’s eyes, Jon Jones will always be the GOAT.
Previously, Jones vacated his light heavyweight title in August 2020 with plans to move up to the heavyweight division. However, Jon is yet to make his debut following his spat with the UFC regarding his monetary demands. Additionally, the UFC believes that Jones is not yet deserving of a title shot.
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What Will Jon Jones Do Next?
Jones (26-1), the UFC’s former light heavyweight champion, vacated his belt following a controversial win over Dominick Reyes at UFC 247. Moreover, Jones has been “iffy” in his past few fights, leading many to question his greatness. As a result, Dana White and the UFC feel that Jones needs to prove himself before he can make a bid for the heavyweight title.
Jon Jones and Dominick Reyes face off during the UFC 247 press conference at T-Mobile Arena. ( Credit: Getty Images)
On the other hand, Stipe Miocic has been working on gaining weight, indicating he wants another shot at Ngannou. After beating Ngannou the first time around, Stipe lost to him at UFC 260, claiming a smaller shape as his disadvantage.
