Jake Paul, known for his bold ventures in combat sports, has now set his sights on former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones.
Paul, who has successfully attracted significant talents to his Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), publicly announced his interest in signing Jones. This overture follows Jones’s recent public expressions of discontent with the Ultimate Fighting Championship and his request for release from the organization.
MVP has significantly grown its roster, securing high-profile combat sports athletes. Notable acquisitions include ex-UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou and former UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, both anticipated to fight under the MVP banner in MMA.
Jones’s Relationship With The UFC Appears Uncertain
The ongoing friction between Jones and the UFC has sparked considerable discussion within the MMA community. While UFC President Dana White implied Jones’s retirement, Jones has vehemently refuted this notion.
Jones confirmed negotiating with the UFC for a potential bout at a White House-hosted event, but found the financial terms unacceptable, stating the offer was far below his perceived value.
In response to Jones’s desire to depart the UFC, Jake Paul publicly extended an invitation for him to join MVP, assuring Jones of a welcoming environment and promising him compensation commensurate with his status.
A Potential Jon Jones vs Francis Ngannou Superfight
A move by Jones to MVP could potentially reignite the highly anticipated superfight against Francis Ngannou, a bout once considered the premier heavyweight clash the UFC could organize.
Despite years of fan anticipation, the showdown never occurred, particularly after Ngannou’s exit from the UFC and subsequent signing with the Professional Fighters League. Ngannou has since ventured into high-profile boxing, facing Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
Jones, meanwhile, successfully transitioned to heavyweight, claiming the UFC title and defending it once before his current contractual issues with the promotion emerged.