sports

Jon Jones Set for UFC White House Event

Jon Jones appears set to headline the UFC's White House event against Alex Pereira, despite Dana White previously calling the likelihood a 'billion-to-one' chance.

The former heavyweight champion, who vacated his title when he retired in June, is reportedly negotiating a deal to face Pereira, who recently vacated the light heavyweight title. The fight may be for the interim heavyweight title given Tom Aspinall's uncertain return.

The event, billed as a 250-year-anniversary celebration of American independence, features Jones as the only American fighter with sufficient reputation to carry the flag for the occasion. President Trump's 80th birthday coincides with the event.