In a surprising turn of events leading up to UFC 295, controversy surrounds the potential clash between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou. UFC President Dana White’s reluctance to co-promote the event with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has drawn strong criticism, notably from the unlikeliest of sources – Jake Paul.
White, in a recent statement, unequivocally stated, “I tried to make the fight here. They didn’t want to do it. It’s done. [Ngannou] doesn’t fight here anymore. I’m not interested.” The announcement sent shockwaves through the MMA community, leaving fans disappointed and curious about the fate of this highly anticipated matchup.
Enter Jake Paul, the brash and outspoken boxing sensation, who took to Twitter to express his dismay. Paul tweeted, “It’s a shame. Jones vs Ngannou is way bigger now than it was while Francis fought for UFC. Both fighters would make $20M+. If one can co-promote with Showtime to put on MayMac, why not with PFL, where we share the same media partner?”
Jake Paul Slams Dana White’s Refusal to Co-Promote Jones vs. Ngannou with PFL: ‘Shame’
It’s a shame. Jones vs Ngannou is way bigger now than it was while Francis fought for UFC. Both fighters would make $20M+.
If you one can co-promote with Showtime to put on MayMac why not with PFL, where we share the same media partner? @francis_ngannou @JonnyBones @PFLMMA https://t.co/hXTAG7r9LH
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) November 13, 2023
Paul’s tweet raises valid points about the financial potential of a Jones vs. Ngannou showdown. The YouTuber-turned-boxer compares the situation to the Mayweather vs. McGregor fight, where cross-promotion with Showtime and UFC resulted in a colossal payday for both fighters. With the PFL sharing the same media partner, it raises questions about White’s decision not to explore similar opportunities.
The dynamics of modern combat sports often extend beyond the confines of a single promotion. Co-promotions, when executed successfully, have proven to be lucrative ventures, showcasing fighters to diverse audiences and maximizing revenue potential. Jake Paul, known for his business acumen, highlights the missed opportunity in the UFC’s decision not to collaborate with the PFL for this high-stakes bout.
As the debate intensifies, fight enthusiasts are left eagerly awaiting a resolution. Will Dana White reconsider his stance, recognizing the potential windfall and heightened global interest a co-promotion could bring to Jones vs. Ngannou? Only time will tell if this clash of titans transcends organizational boundaries, or if the rift between the UFC and PFL will deny fans a spectacle that promises both sporting and financial fireworks.
