Jon Jones has received public backing from the man he succeeded as UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou, amid his ongoing dispute with the UFC over fighter pay.

Jones has been in conflict with the promotion following reports of a $15 million offer for his next bout, which was rumoured as being at the UFC’s upcoming card at the White House, which he has described as insufficient, prompting calls for improved terms or a potential release.

“Of course, Jon Jones deserves that,” Francis Ngannou said on The Ariel Helwani Show. “Jon Jones has been with this organisation for how long? Jon Jones has been the champion since he was 23, which is 15 years. Over 15 years? If there is somebody that deserves something nowadays, like just even to pay him tribute, it’s Jon Jones.”

“Jon Jones needs to get paid, maybe not only for the fight that he’s fighting, but for what he has done for the sport. For where he has taken the sport,” Ngannou added. “Aren’t they out there bragging that he’s the GOAT? Man, if the GOAT is not respected, then who should we respect? I worry if the GOAT is being treated like that. I truly worry if that’s how they treat the GOAT, then those who are not the GOAT, I don’t know, whatever they are, imagine what they are going through.”

Jones later acknowledged the comments, writing: “I appreciate you advocating for me, Francis,” he said, according to his Instagram story.

Discussions over Jones’ future remain unresolved, with no official announcement regarding his next fight as negotiations with the UFC continue. The former two-division champion had previously stated that he was retired from active competition.

Ngannou, meanwhile, is preparing for his next bout after signing with Most Valuable Promotions, where he is scheduled to face Philipe Lins on an upcoming card headlined by Ronda Rousey against Gina Carano in California.