Jake Paul Asks UFC To Release Jon Jones

Jake Paul wants UFC to release Jon Jones so the heavyweight can face Francis Ngannou under Paul's MVP MMA banner.

Paul posted the request on social media after Shakur Stevenson received his release from Zuffa Boxing earlier this week, per MMA Mania. "Can Jon Jones request a release like Shakur Stevenson so we can go ahead and do this Francis Ngannou vs Jon Jones fight?" Paul wrote. "They already said they are never working with Francis. So let Jon fly and we can give the fans what they want."

Jones Retweets Request But Ngannou Warns Of Obstacles

Jones retweeted the message, signaling interest in the idea. Ngannou added his own response that tempered expectations. "Freedom isn't free," he wrote. "It's not given, but it's taken."

Jones has been in limbo since UFC denied his requests for a superfight against Alex Pereira and a bout at the White House. The promotion effectively shelved the former champion rather than book either matchup.

Ngannou spent years navigating contract disputes with UFC before a sunset clause allowed his exit after five years. Dana White still criticizes him for leaving. If Jones pursues release, he faces a similar battle — potentially waiting two years or securing one final fight before freedom arrives.

Paul's MVP MMA promotion operates under a 50-percent revenue split with fighters. Jones vs. Ngannou remains one of combat sports' most demanded matchups, but UFC holds the contract.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Following Shakur Stevenson release, Jake Paul asks UFC to let Jon Jones go