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“[Muhammad] Ali Took Three Years Off and Didn’t…”: Dana White Expresses Concern for Jon Jones’ Heavyweight Fight After Big Layoff

Published 01/15/2023, 5:50 AM EST

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UFC fans are excited to hear that Jon Jones is back in the UFC with a new 8 fight deal. At the post-fight conference of UFC Vegas 67, Dana White confirmed the news. Jones will be facing Cyril Gane in March at UFC 285 on March 5th, due to an untimely mistake by the T-Mobile arena, his comeback fight has been revealed.

White has always been a big believer in Jones as the best in the business. This may be the reason why Ngannou did not fancy an opportunity to defend his belt against Jones. Furthermore, he did not even sign the new contract. Jones’ return to the octagon is highly anticipated by fans and fighters alike. Moreover, many are eager to see what he can accomplish in the new 8-fight deal.

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Jones has always been a dominant force in the UFC. In addition, his comeback after a three-year hiatus has many fans excited to see what he can accomplish in the new division. Jones is one of the most accomplished and respected fighters in the sport. Moreover, his return to the octagon is sure to be a major event in the world of MMA. With his new 8-fight deal and the upcoming match against Cyril Gane, Jones is set to make a big impact in the sport once again.

Dana White compares Jones’ comeback to Muhammad Ali’s

Jon Jones is considered one of the greatest fighters in the history of the sport by many. His comeback after a three-year hiatus has sparked excitement among fans who wonder what he can accomplish in a new division. Dana White, President of the UFC, is among those who think that Jones has the potential to continue his success despite the challenges that come with taking time off from fighting.

I mean I’m a big believer in ring rust. I think, I mean Ali took three years off and and didn’t look the same when he came back. Uh we’ll see what happened with Jon,he said while addressing the press conference.

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One of the things that you know Jon has put the weight on naturally though he didn’t do it overnight. It’s taking taking a long time and he’s ready to roll he’s excited to fight so we’ll see what happens,” he added.

White acknowledges that ring rust is a real concern when it comes to fighters who take a break from competition. Citing Muhammad Ali’s comeback as an example. However, he also notes that Jones has been preparing for his comeback carefully. In addition, putting on weight naturally over time and taking steps to make sure that he is ready to fight again. White believes that Jones is excited to fight and ready to roll. Furthermore, he said that the MMA ‘GOAT’ will give it his all and put on a great show for the fans.

Dana White on Jon Jones- Francis Ngannou

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Reporter asked Dana White about the decision of Francis Ngannou to not accept a fight against Jon Jones. Dana White said that Ngannou felt he was in a position where he could fight lesser competition for more money and didn’t want to take the risk of fighting Jon Jones, who is considered the best of all time. He added that there’s nothing wrong with that, but that’s not what they do at the UFC. The UFC is built on the best fighting the best, and that’s the culture they want to maintain.

He said, “That’s just not what we do here. It’s not what we do here the best fight the best here you know.

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Dana White said he offered Ngannou more than any other fighter would, however it seemed that Ngannou had other priorities. It’s understandable that fighters want to protect their record and maximize their earning potential, but at the end of the day, the UFC is about the best fighters fighting the best. And it’s clear that Dana White wants to maintain that standard.

Watch This Story– Freedom or Legacy? Dana White offered a tough choice for Francis Ngannou

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Written by:

Himakshu Vyas

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Himakshu Vyas is a Combat Sports author at Essentiallysports. He is passionate about sports, with soccer and MMA being the sports he is most involved in. Aside from that, he follows the global soccer scene.
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Edited by:

Shibu Immanuel