Jon Jones’ unexpected attempt to position himself for a UFC comeback has sparked sharp criticism, particularly from former title challenger Chael Sonnen. The UFC legend has openly questioned why Jones would return if he continues to avoid a showdown with current heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
Jones insists he’s “not retired”
After announcing his retirement earlier this year, Jones has now changed his stance, insisting that he was never truly finished with the sport. The former two-division champion revealed that he continues to train rigorously, claiming he works out five days a week in preparation for what he hopes will be a monumental return.
Jones even pushed for a fight on the UFC’s proposed White House card in June next year. However, UFC CEO Dana White dismissed the idea outright, describing the chances of Jon Jones headlining the event as “a billion to one.”
Chael Sonnen calls Jon Jones’ stance “confusing”
While Jones attempts to frame his narrative as though retirement never really happened, Chael Sonnen has called out the inconsistencies. Speaking on Good Guy / Bad Guy, the outspoken UFC veteran questioned the legitimacy of Jones’ comeback claims.
“If Jon says that he’s back and he was never injured, he was never ill… he just didn’t want to fight Tom Aspinall,” Sonnen said. “That’s the part to me that’s a little bit weird. He’s playing this as though that retirement never happened as opposed to this is a comeback.”
Sonnen pressed further on the ambiguity surrounding Jon Jones’ goals. “If you’re coming back, what are you coming back for? What is it that you’re coming back to? And is it just an open slate to admit anything? Anyone except that guy, that guy over there in England… anybody but him.”
The Aspinall question looms large
The criticism stems from Jones’ decision not to unify the heavyweight belt against Tom Aspinall, despite having nearly two years to make the fight happen. For Sonnen, this refusal undermines the credibility of Jones’ return.
“Is that how we’re supposed to interpret this?” Sonnen asked, highlighting the widespread belief that Jones is deliberately avoiding the dangerous British champion.
As the debate continues, Jon Jones’ future remains uncertain. While he insists on making a return, the legitimacy of that comeback will likely depend on whether he faces Aspinall—the opponent many believe defines the heavyweight landscape today.