Overview
- IBA, which issued its confirmation Tuesday, said Jones will serve as global ambassador and co-host the bare-knuckle card in Saint Petersburg on March 28.
- Jones is not slated to fight at the event because he remains under UFC contract, and his role is promotional rather than competitive.
- The March 28 lineup features former UFC contender Yoel Romero versus Vagab Vagabov, reflecting how Jones’ network has helped place familiar MMA names on new stages.
- The announcement follows weeks of tension with the UFC, as Jones claimed he was offered $15 million for the White House card and Dana White said he was never in consideration, a dispute that remains unverified due to undisclosed pay.
- IBA President Umar Kremlev framed the partnership as a bid to raise the league’s global profile, highlighting how bare-knuckle promotions use celebrity ambassadors to attract talent and new fans across international markets.