Dana White has confirmed that Jon Jones will not be featured on the upcoming UFC White House fight card, a decision stemming from the fighter’s history of unreliability. This decision is not without precedent; White previously banned Jones from headlining future events due to similar concerns, although that ban has since been lifted. The forthcoming event at the White House is set to air live on CBS and will host dignitaries from across the globe, prompting the UFC to prioritize stability and reliability in their roster.
The exclusion of Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in mixed martial arts history, has raised eyebrows. UFC color commentator Joe Rogan expressed his disappointment on his podcast, stating, “If they don’t do Jon Jones at the White House, I think it would be a travesty.” Rogan challenged White’s reasoning, asserting, “You can count on him. Come on, stop.”
At 38 years old, Jones has made it clear that he wants to be part of the White House event. However, lingering frustrations may complicate that possibility. Earlier this year, the promised heavyweight title unification bout with Jones fell through, leaving White with a sense of agitation regarding Jones’s commitment and the potential fallout from this situation.
Rogan raised additional concerns regarding logistics for the event, questioning the security measures that would be in place and considering the potential weather challenges that could arise from an outdoor venue in Washington, D.C., during the summer.
He noted, “What if it’s hot and muggy? That’s going to affect people.” Rogan pointed out the differences in climate and environment between D.C. in June and Abu Dhabi in September, a contrast that factors significantly into the planning of events.
As the UFC navigates this complicated situation, all eyes will be on how they choose to fill the card without one of their biggest stars and what ramifications that may have for the event’s reception and overall success.
