UFC CEO Dana White has categorically shut down claims from former champion Jon Jones that he was ever in contention to feature on the organisation's upcoming White House fight card. White made his position clear while announcing the six-fight line-up, which is headlined by Ilia Topuria defending his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje.
White's Firm Stance on Jones' Status
During the announcement on Saturday night, White emphasised that Jones was never going to be booked for the prestigious event. This comes after reports had circulated suggesting Jones was being considered for a bout against Brazilian fighter Alex Pereira for the interim heavyweight title. Instead, that co-main event slot will see Ciryl Gane take on Pereira.
Jones' Social Media Outburst
Jon Jones, who previously retired from the UFC rather than face interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall before reversing his decision, took to social media to express his frustration. In a series of emotional posts, Jones wrote, "I'm released from the UFC?!! Make this make sense. So all of this negotiating was complete bullls***, is that what you want me to agree to publicly?"
He added, "Laying in my bed, wrapping my head around this perception. All I can think is how f***ing painful." This public outburst prompted direct questions to White about the nature of any negotiations with the fighter.
White's Detailed Response
When confronted with Jones' comments, Dana White provided a detailed explanation. "I never said that there were no negotiations," White clarified. "I said 'were they talking to Jon Jones? They talk to everybody'. Everybody was talked to, but not one word of what I said was not true about the whole Jon Jones thing."
White continued, "How many times have I sat up here and said, 'he’s not fighting at the White House?' And have you guys all seen the video of the dude with the Meta glasses on when he didn’t know he was being filmed telling him that his hips are f***ing shot and he needs hip replacement? Did you not see the videos of him running in the flag football game? What did I say that wasn’t true? It’s all true."
Medical Concerns Cited
White pointed to apparent medical issues as a significant factor in the decision-making process. He referenced videos showing Jones' physical limitations during a flag football game and private conversations about hip problems. "But no way in hell Jon was going to be booked for the White House card, wasn’t going to happen," White stated definitively.
Despite this, White acknowledged that UFC matchmakers had explored all possibilities. "The matchmakers were out talking to everybody, seeing what was possible and they brought me every possible fight that could be made," he explained, maintaining that while discussions occurred, Jones was never a serious contender for the card.
White concluded by addressing his personal regard for Jones, saying, "You guys all bust my balls about how much I love Jon Jones and Jon is the greatest of all time." However, he reiterated that this admiration did not translate to a spot on the White House fight card given the current circumstances.
