Michael Bisping isn’t confident that Jon Jones can defeat UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou.
Jones has reportedly been penciled in to fight at UFC 285, according to Nolan King of MMA Junkie. While his opponent is still a question mark, King noted that the UFC is looking to match ‘Bones’ up against ‘The Predator’.
Bisping chimed in with his thoughts on the potential super fight during a live Q&A with fans on YouTube. The former UFC middleweight champion said:
“Of course, technically, Jon is the better fighter but Francis [just needs] one touch, one glimpse of a shot. You’re going to sleep. So I don’t know.”
Ngannou is one of the most decorated knockout artists in UFC history. Out of his 12 wins in the octagon, 10 have come by way of KO or TKO.
But, of course, it’s no secret that wrestling – Jones’ bread and butter – isn’t ‘The Predator’s’ strong suit. However, the Cameroonian did show signs of improvement in his takedown defense during his past couple of fights.
On top of Bisping’s point, UFC 285 will be Jones’ first fight since February 2020. It is also expected to be his first fight in the heavyweight division.
Catch Michael Bisping’s comments in the clip below:
Jon Jones’ coach likes his chances against Francis Ngannou
Jon Jones’ heavyweight debut could take place against current UFC champion Francis Ngannou or former champion Stipe Miocic.
It’s still unclear which matchup will take place, but his coach Brandon Gibson likes his chances of beating either of them.
In an interview with Submission Radio, coach Gibson was asked to assess the threat level of Ngannou and Miocic to his pupil. Gibson responded by saying:
“Jon Jones has the skill set to get his hand raised in both of those bouts [against Stipe Miocic and Francis Ngannou]. There’s no doubt in my mind about it. There’s nobody like Jon at heavyweight. Nobody as dynamic, as fast, as gifted in all the disciplines like Jon is. And his IQ is off the chart. Not to say that these other guys aren’t smart, brilliant fighters, but Jon Jones’ IQ and comprehension of his game is unlike anybody else’s in the world.”
Watch the full interview below: