UFC 295: Francis Ngannou Considers Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic An Even Matchup

Francis Ngannou recently weighed in on the Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic heavyweight title fight at UFC 296. The former heavyweight champion stated that he believes they both are evenly matched, with equal chances of a win. Jones will defend his heavyweight title against Miocic in the main event on November 11 at Madison Square Garden. 

While many believe Miocic is past his prime and is an easy money fight for Jones, Ngannou is of the opinion that the UFC’s greatest heavyweight champion ever is tougher than he looks. Having fought Stipe Miocic twice – losing their first title bout by unanimous decision in 2018, then avenging his loss by knockout in March 2021, ‘The Predator’ knows firsthand that Miocic should not be underestimated. 

During a recent open workout session ahead of his highly anticipated boxing debut against Tyson Fury, Francis Ngannou shared his two cents on the upcoming UFC heavyweight title fight. ‘The Predator’ stated that he gives both contenders a 50-50 chance. He also claimed that Jones must not underestimate his older opponent and cited his own experience of fighting Miocic twice.

After beating Miocic and Ciryl Gane to cement his champion status, Ngannou was preparing for a fight with Jones. However, the Cameroonian’s contract talks with the promotion went sour and he left the UFC earlier this year.  ‘Bones’ later submitted ‘Bon Gamin’ in the first round at UFC 285 and claimed the vacant heavyweight title. 

While the Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones fight remains a pipe dream for the Cameroonian, there is still hope. With the UFC notoriously against cross-promotion, Ngannou’s best shot would be a unique PFL-UFC exhibition fight. Meanwhile, he’s looking to prove himself in the squared circle against one of the greatest boxers ever. 

The Francis Ngannou vs. Tyson Fury boxing match will be a non-title fight and will last 10 rounds. The fight is set to go down next month in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Given their resumes in the boxing world, the WBC heavyweight champion is a massive betting favorite. However, only time will tell who emerges victorious.