Jake Paul used the spotlight of a major press conference to make a bold move in the middle of the growing dispute between Jon Jones and the UFC. Speaking during the promotional event for the upcoming Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano card, Paul publicly invited Jones to join Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). “Jon, you’re always welcome to come over to MVP. We’ll get it popping and we’ll get you paid what you deserve.” The statement immediately grabbed attention across the MMA world.
Paul: MVP Is Competing With the UFC
Paul made it clear that MVP now views itself as a direct competitor to major combat sports promotions. “At the end of the day, we are competitors to the UFC now and Zuffa Boxing.”
The comment reflects the growing battle for star power between promotions as new streaming deals and global investors reshape the combat sports landscape.
The invitation comes during a heated public dispute between Jones and UFC leadership. Jones recently requested a release from the UFC after learning he would not appear on the White House fight card planned for June. UFC CEO Dana White responded by saying Jones was never part of the event plans and suggested the former champion is effectively retired due to health issues. Jones pushed back strongly, claiming the UFC misrepresented the situation and alleging he was offered a “lowball” deal during negotiations.
The fight that we’ve been waiting for
Adding another twist to the situation, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou was recently announced for the same MVP event. Ngannou will fight Philipe Lins on the card, which will stream globally on Netflix. His involvement has already sparked speculation about a long-discussed super fight between Ngannou and Jones. A matchup fans have debated for years but have never seen inside the cage.
With Netflix entering the MMA event space, rival promotions competing for fighters, and Jones potentially exploring options outside the UFC, the battle for heavyweight supremacy may soon extend beyond the Octagon. And if Jake Paul has his way, the next chapter could take place under the MVP banner.
Francis Ngannou Books MMA Return vs Philipe Lins on Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Card
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
