Ngannou got a defense from Jon Jones: I was in a similar situation. I’m glad he knows his worth. I believe our paths will cross

Francis Ngannou has taken a difficult step. He turned down a generous offer from the UFC and with it the expected mega-fight with the legendary Jon Jones. He has received criticism, but also praise and admiration. The now former heavyweight champion was even defended by Jones himself.

He could have been the highest-paid heavyweight fighter in UFC history, but he turned down the spectacular offer because money is not his top priority. He also wants the freedom to do what he can do.

So Francis Ngannou turned down a spectacular fight with the legendary Jon Jones. The latter returns to action after three years, moving from welterweight to heavyweight. This is one of the best fighters of all time, if not the best.

Instead of the now former champion, Jones will face his last opponent in March, Ciryl Gane, who Ngannou defeated despite health problems when he came in with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee.

While Gane began to pick on his conqueror and criticize him, thus acting similarly to UFC boss Dana White, Jones himself, on the other hand, praised the actions of the feared puncher.

“I’m glad Francis knows his worth. No man has the right to denigrate another man for knowing and fighting for his worth. I’ve been in a similar situation to Francis before. I was never satisfied with my salary. I had to step down for three years and missed out on a lot of time,” Jones expressed to Sports Illustrated.

Among other things, the former long-time welterweight king wished Ngannou the best of luck and believes that the organization that acquires him can really benefit a lot from his presence.

And that the mutual fight didn’t work out? “I believe our paths will cross. Dana White always gives the fans what they want to see. And a Jones vs. Ngannou fight will always keep people interested. I’ll be watching Francis,” Jones said.

Source: Sports Illustrated, UFC, MMA Junkie,