Jon Jones has responded to Alex Pereira as speculation continues to grow over a potential showdown on the UFC White House card in June.
It was announced last year that a UFC event will be staged on the South Lawn of the White House to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The event would be historic, marking the first time a sporting event has been held at the White House, and it has prompted several of the UFC's biggest stars to push for a place on the card.
Despite retiring in June last year, Jones quickly backtracked on that decision in the hope of being included.
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However, UFC president Dana White has been reluctant to commit to Jones' return following his abrupt retirement, even as Pereira has publicly pushed for a fight with the former heavyweight champion.
The Brazilian recently returned home and shared footage from a visit to a tyre shop where he once worked.
In a video that circulated online, a tire could be seen with the words "Next Jones" written on it.
Jones was quick to respond, recording a video of his own in which he made his intentions clear.
He said: “I’ve beaten a lot of legends from your country my friend. I know you would love to avenge the boys, but boy would you be a good one to add to my list.
"Be careful what you wish for. Chama”
While both fighters appear eager for the bout, Jones' sudden retirement decision still seems to linger on White's mind.
The UFC boss said: "At 205lbs? That would be a fight. But can I count on Jon Jones? Can’t have Jon Jones doing something bad or pulling out of the f*****g White House fight.”
Jones addressed White's hesitation during a recent interview with Red Corner MMA.
He said: “Pereira wants to fight me but I don’t think Dana White’s gonna allow that to happen, it’ll be interesting to see what Dana wants."
That has not stopped Jones from attempting to convince White that he deserves a spot on the White House card.
In a promotional video for Ketone in November, he spoke about the pride he would feel fighting at the president's residence.
He said: “In the summer of 2026, America turns 250 years old, and I couldn’t be more proud to call myself an American.
“I love this country. The people, the promise, the fight.
"This nation was built on courage and conflict, on the belief that we can take on the biggest, the boldest, and come out victorious.
"That’s how I’ve lived my life."
Topics: UFC, Jon Jones, Dana White, MMA
James Taylor