Overview
- Jones released a sponsor-backed video invoking American pride and urging his inclusion on the 2026 White House card, calling himself ready and motivated.
- Pereira amplified his pursuit of a Jones fight with a Colosseum clip declaring, "Jon Jones. White House. Chama," which drew a mix of praise and ridicule online.
- The UFC has not announced matchups for the July 14, 2026 event, and Dana White has publicly questioned booking Jones, citing a need for fighters he can count on.
- Analyst Chael Sonnen suggests a Jones–Pereira pairing could depend on the outcome of Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane, reflecting an unsettled heavyweight picture.
- Other names are jockeying for slots, with Francis Ngannou touting Jones as his biggest possible fight, Bo Nickal saying President Trump wants him on the card, and Brandon Royval criticizing the invite-only concept.