Daniel Cormier, a prominent adversary of Jon Jones, conveyed a sense of understanding for the former UFC heavyweight titleholder after his request for contract termination.
Jon Jones is seeking an exit from the Ultimate Fighting Championship following recent comments made by CEO Dana White during the UFC 326 post-event press conference. After unveiling the complete roster for UFC Freedom 250, scheduled for the White House in June, White dismissed any notion that Jones was close to competing on the card, labeling Jones’ declarations of ongoing discussions with the promotion as ‘untrue’.
This elicited a strong and passionate response from Jones across his social media platforms, including a lengthy declaration in which the previous two-division champion demanded his release from the organization. Jones is widely acknowledged as one of the greatest combatants in UFC history, despite a history of issues outside the competitive arena.
Jones might become an unrestricted free agent for one of the rare instances in his storied career later this year. However, Jones’ two-time competitor, UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier, was puzzled by Jones’ response to White’s remarks.
Daniel Cormier Expresses Confusion Regarding Jon Jones’ Upset Over White House Event Snub
During a recent broadcast of Funky and the Champ, Cormier shared his viewpoint on the discord between Jones, White, and the UFC leadership.
“Here’s where I’m puzzled: Jon Jones has had numerous engagements with the UFC, both favorable and unfavorable, correct? So why would he be so deeply affected by it if there’s information he knows isn’t being disclosed to the public? There have been many occasions when [Jon and Dana] have spoken critically of each other, and have failed to reach agreements. Sometimes due to Jon’s actions, sometimes due to the UFC’s. So why would he be so offended now?” Cormier stated concerning Jones.
“Because it was implied he would never be part of the White House event…it appeared his emotions were hurt because [Dana] was accusing him of dishonesty. It’s challenging to become that distraught when someone has previously exhibited such conduct, but at present, it genuinely seems to have distressed him, and I’ve called him every name in the book! [LAUGHS].
“I honestly believe it was because the White House situation held significant personal meaning for him,” Cormier continued regarding Jones. “He won’t be released. I believe there’s absolutely no chance he’ll be let go…there’s no possibility of releasing Jones, because if [Jones vs. Francis Ngannou] could then be organized outside the UFC, that would empower someone else. Therefore, there’s no way he can compete anywhere else!”
As of this moment, it remains unclear whether White and the UFC will approve Jones’ plea. He has not participated in a fight since his victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, having announced his retirement last summer following unsuccessful negotiations to face Tom Aspinall.
How do you interpret Daniel Cormier’s perspective on Jon Jones’ continuing dispute with the UFC? Share your thoughts below!
