“It’s all about money.” Ngannou’s team is ready for a fight with Jones
Sergey Sorokin July 11, 2024, 11:00 Moscow time Audio version: Your browser does not support the audio element.
It seems that the battle of giants could be organized in Saudi Arabia.
One of the biggest disappointments for mixed martial arts fans is the confrontation between Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones. And all because it was not meant to happen. Predator left the UFC and went to conquer the PFL, and Kostyanoy became the champion of the best heavyweight league on the planet, where he continues to reign to this day. But it should be noted that neither the guys themselves nor the promoters gave up the idea of holding this fight. And now there is active talk that Francis and John could meet in the very near future. True, it is not yet known exactly in what format everything will take place.
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Ngannou’s team announced their willingness to stage the fight. Here’s what his coach Eric Niksik said: “It seems to me that with Saudi Arabia’s involvement in organizing this fight, anything is possible. Here it’s all about money. If this ever happens, it will only be with the direct involvement of Saudi Arabia and Turki Al ash-Sheikh himself. I have no expectations when things will reach this stage. Moreover, if this were to happen, I wouldn’t really be surprised. Dana is a smart businessman. If he thinks it makes sense for his business, then he would do it.”
Saudi Arabia is a real host of top-level events. So far, this applies specifically to professional boxing, but the first UFC tournament has already been held in this country. And there has been a quick rapprochement, which could be an important factor in Jones’ performance. Ngannou fought both fights according to the rules of professional boxing in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, he will have no problem agreeing with the organizers on all the conditions. And the country itself would like to host an event of this level and category.
Francisco Ngannou
Photo: Richard Pelham/Getty Images
The mentor mentioned money as one of the most important factors in making this fight happen. And indeed it is. In Saudi Arabia, they do not skimp on showering superstars with money and signing huge contracts. They also perfectly understand how much everyone is looking forward to a clash between Ngannou and Jones. And it doesn’t matter if it takes place in a cage or an octagon. Now, this is not just a battle between two top-level heavyweights, which is sure to prove fierce. This is a clash between two leagues that aim to compete with each other: UFC and PFL.
Dana Blanco
UFC President
“I have nothing but respect for Turki Al ash-Sheikh. He is a great guy and we have developed a strong relationship over the past few months. I admire his achievements in boxing. He is the only person who was able to organize many interesting fights. Nowadays boxers don’t shy away from fights because they get big paychecks. It’s amazing what he was able to do in such a short time in boxing. We discussed many options and proposals together. I respect him and love him. Let’s see what happens next.”
It seems that all parties are ready for the fight to take place after all. But questions remain. In particular, it is necessary to understand whether Jones is really ready to act according to the rules of professional boxing. On the one hand, I would like to see the guys follow the rules of mixed martial arts. It seems that this is what would allow them to show all their best qualities. But it must be understood that the confrontation may already be subject to too much pressure due to the confrontation between the PFL and the UFC.
Jon Jones
Photo: Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images
Mixed martial arts fans are definitely looking forward to the fight between Predator and Bone. And there is a feeling that they do not care at all what rules will be followed. Of course, it is in MMA that the guys can show their best qualities. And there would be no special questions about how deserved the victory of this or that fighter would be. In boxing, opponents will be in different conditions, as Ngannou managed to fight two fights. But there is confidence that Jones will still take on this challenge. Throughout his career, Kostyanoy has shown that he is ready for any of them.
