Is Jon Jones Being Treated Unfairly?

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Mar 26, 2026 6:56 AM ET

UFC commentator Joe Rogan has addressed Jon Jones‘ pay dispute with UFC CEO Dana White over the alleged negotiations for the upcoming UFC Freedom 250 card.

The controversy centers on the June 14 event at the White House, where Jones claims he was offered a significantly reduced purse for a fight against Alex Pereira. Dana White denied claims the UFC was in negotiations with Jones, while also stating he was retired due to arthritis in his hips. Since then, Jones has requested a release from his UFC contract. Jones further alleged that the UFC capped his offer for the Pereira fight at $15 million. This is a 50% pay cut from the $30 million Jones was reportedly offered to fight then-interim champion Tom Aspinall in 2025.

“It was a money thing. Jon was saying they wouldn’t budge over $15 million. This is for an interim title. If he was going to get $30 million to fight Aspinall, half of that is kind of crazy. He’s the greatest of all time, and he’s gonna make the White House card. If he makes the White House card, you’re like, ‘Oh s—! Jon Jones is back. The whole card completely changes,” Rogan said

Ngannou Reacts

Francis Ngannou has also given his take on the situation. The former UFC Heavyweight Champion left in 2023 after contract talks broke down. The Predator was reportedly concerned that his rights as an independent contractor would be impacted if he stayed. Since his departure, Ngannou has boxed twice under his previous PFL deal, earning a reported $30 million for facing Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury in two boxing fights. That was more than his entire UFC career earnings. Ngannou felt the UFC had not treated Jones well during the recent breakdown in ‘talks.’

“Of course, Jon Jones deserves that. Jon Jones has been with this organization for how long? Jon Jones has been the champion since he was 23, which is, what 15 years? Over 15 years? If there is somebody that deserves something nowadays, like just even to pay him tribute, it’s Jon Jones. Jon Jones needs to get paid maybe not only for the fight that he’s fighting, but for what he has done for the sport.

“For where he has taken the sport to. Aren’t they out there bragging that he’s the GOAT? Man, if the GOAT is not respected, then who should we respect? I worry if the GOAT is being treated like that. I truly worry if that’s how they treat the GOAT, then those who are not the GOAT, I don’t know, whatever they are, imagine what they are going through,” Ngannou stated

Jones has responded to Ngannou’s comments, as he expressed his gratitude for The Predator having his back.

“I appreciate you advocating for me, Francis,” Jones stated

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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