Jon Jones admits he is leaning towards never fighting again
Jon Jones has hinted at potential retirement, and this time, if he hangs up the gloves, he says there’s no coming back.
The former UFC two-division champion retired from MMA last year after refusing to fight then-interim champion Tom Aspinall and unify the belts. However, two weeks after his retirement, he showed interest in the UFC White House card and jumped back in the testing pool.
Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira was rumored to happen on June 14. Although Dana White did not second the idea right away, due to Jones’ unreliability, the UFC president left the door open for fans to hope.
Bones’ last fought at UFC 309 in 2024 against Stipe Miocic and won by TKO in Round 3. Most recently, it was revealed that the UFC GOAT needs a hip replacement, as he is suffering from severe arthritis.
Jon Jones hints at potential retirement
In an interview with Helen Yee Sports, Jon Jones said that he may never enter the octagon again. ‘Bones’ wants to walk away while the time is right rather than become one of those fighters “who win some and lose some.” He said:
“Expect Jon Jones to continue to grow as a human being. Except my best, just the way that I give back to others and try to impact these younger fighters. I think my best self is on its way and that’s a person without fighting. And I’m excited to meet this guy, to forge this guy.”
Jones then added:
“I think I could be done. I’m young enough to compete with some of the best fighters in the world. I am healthy enough to compete with some of the best fighters in the world, but I’ve always been used to competing with the best in the world. So, I don’t know. It’s a really high standard to uphold. So maybe it’s just about, you know, doing it right and getting out at a really good time.”
Lastly, the 38-year-old said:
“I don’t want to be one of these fighters that win some and lose some and can’t remember what your name is. I met a fighter a few years ago, he didn’t know what his birthday was and that’s a lot of fighting. I’m far from that, and I don’t even want to know what that looks like.”
Check out Jon Jones’ comments below (3:14):
However, despite severe arthritis, Jon Jones has confirmed that he still wants to be part of the June 14 card, and UFC matchmakers are aware of his condition.
