Jones glad Ngannou 'knows his worth,' expects to fight him in future

Though Jon Jones is disappointed that his heavyweight debut won't come against Francis Ngannou, he's excited for the former UFC heavyweight champion as he moves on to a new chapter of his career.

"I'm happy for Francis," Jones told Sports Illustrated's Justin Barrasso. "I'm glad that Francis knows his worth. No man has a right to shame another man for fighting for his worth."

Ngannou split with the UFC last weekend after failing to come to terms on a new contract. He fought out his deal in a win over Ciryl Gane in January 2022. Jones and Gane are now scheduled to meet for the vacant heavyweight title March 4.

Jones and Ngannou had gone back and forth on social media several times over the past three years, angling for a fight. The UFC was targeting that bout for an event in 2023 - possibly UFC 285 - before finally parting ways with "The Predator."

Jones, the former longtime light heavyweight champion, has been preparing for a move to heavyweight since 2020. He's returning to the Octagon after three years on the sidelines and several conflicts with the promotion over his pay.

"I was in a very similar situation as Francis as a light heavyweight," Jones said. "I was never happy with my salary. I had to sit out three years, and I missed a lot of time, but now we're here. I encourage Francis on his journey, and I wish him all the best. Another company is going to be truly blessed to have him."

Jones committed to a future with the UFC by signing a new eight-fight contract. However, he believes a fight with Ngannou could still come to fruition down the road. Ngannou said earlier this week he plans to make his professional boxing debut later in 2023.

"I do believe my path will cross with Francis," Jones said. "(UFC president) Dana White always gives the fans what they want to see, and a Jon Jones-Francis Ngannou fight will always be a fight of interest. So, I'm not counting it out. I'll keep an eye on Francis."