Former UFC champion and Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier has strongly backed a blockbuster fight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira for the proposed UFC White House card, following uncertainty surrounding the Brazilian star’s participation in the historic event.
The UFC White House card is expected to take place in June 2026, coinciding with former US President Donald Trump’s birthday and the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. However, recent comments from Pereira have cast doubt over whether the light heavyweight champion will compete on the card at all.
Pereira Casts Doubt Over White House Appearance
Pereira, one of the UFC’s biggest active stars, fueled speculation after posting a cryptic message on social media stating, “Looks like it’s a no-go.” The post raised immediate questions about his availability for the landmark event.
The Brazilian recently reclaimed the UFC light heavyweight title with a devastating first-round knockout of Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320 on October 4, avenging his loss to the Russian contender at UFC 313. Following the win, Pereira openly expressed interest in moving up to heavyweight and called out Jon Jones.
Jones Came Out of Retirement for White House Card
Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, briefly retired in June before reversing his decision a month later. The former heavyweight champion confirmed his willingness to return specifically to compete on the UFC White House card.
At the time, Jones welcomed Pereira’s challenge, creating massive buzz around a potential champion vs champion super fight. However, Pereira’s recent comments have put the matchup in doubt.
Cormier Calls Pereira’s Absence “Discouraging”
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Daniel Cormier described the possibility of Pereira missing the event as deeply disappointing.
“I truly believe that the most discouraging news would be Alex Pereira saying that he’s not going to fight at the White House,” Cormier said.
Cormier emphasized Pereira’s importance to the UFC, highlighting his fan appeal and reputation for delivering explosive finishes whenever he competes.
“Pereira is one of the biggest stars in the UFC. When he fights, you expect fireworks — or a finish,” he added.
Jones vs Pereira Seen as Cornerstone Fight
Cormier explained that the most frustrating aspect of Pereira’s uncertainty is the loss of what could be the defining fight of the event.
“The fight that he offered up for the White House was against Jon Jones,” Cormier said. “That’s what makes this discouraging.”
He also suggested that Pereira’s public comments may indicate behind-the-scenes decisions already being made.
“I wonder if someone told him that’s not what they’re doing. Because I don’t know why else he would make it public,” Cormier said.
Mutual Dependence for Historic Event
According to Cormier, both fighters understand the magnitude of the moment and how much they need each other to make the event truly special.
“Jon Jones feels that if Pereira’s not fighting, he’s not fighting,” Cormier said. “They both know they need each other to place themselves on that White House card, which is going to be an amazing event.”
As things stand, the fate of Jon Jones vs Alex Pereira — and the star power of the UFC White House card — remains uncertain.
