UFC star Jon Jones is set to make his highly-anticipated debut in the heavyweight division with a title fight against Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 on March 4. The matchup was accidentally advertised on T-Mobile Arena but was later taken down.
The UFC had initially planned for Jones to fight former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, but contract issues and disagreement on a new deal led to Ngannou’s free agency and the vacated title. Jones had not fought since February 2020 when he defended his light heavyweight championship against Dominick Reyes. He announced his intentions to move up to heavyweight shortly after.
UFC President Dana White stated that Jones’ desire for high-paying fights specifically against Ngannou, hindered negotiations. Jones was arrested and charged with battery domestic violence in September 2021, but the charges were later dropped. He has had previous legal issues including hit-and-run, DUI and negligent use of a firearm.
As one of the most talented fighters in the UFC, Jones’ performance in the heavyweight division is highly anticipated by fans and critics.
