In a move that has sent shockwaves through the MMA world, UFC CEO Dana White has officially confirmed that Jon Jones, widely regarded as the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, has retired from the sport. The announcement came unexpectedly during a press conference in Azerbaijan, just as the promotion was working toward booking a highly anticipated heavyweight title unification bout between Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall.
Jon Jones' sudden exit that changed UFC's heavyweight landscape
According to Dana White, the 37-year-old Jones called the UFC on Friday night and conveyed his decision to step away from professional competition.
“Jon Jones is officially retired. Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” White declared. The news abruptly shifted the UFC’s plans, elevating Aspinall to the status of undisputed champion.
Jon Jones has not released a statement on his retirement, leaving fans and fighters alike surprised and speculative. A clash between Jones and Aspinall was being billed as one of the biggest heavyweight bouts in UFC history. However, Jones appeared unenthusiastic about the matchup, previously stating that a win over Tom Aspinall would do little to enhance his already historic legacy.
Legacy secured, but a chapter left unwritten
Jones’ accomplishments in the UFC speak for themselves. After dominating the light heavyweight division for over a decade, he made a successful leap to heavyweight in 2023, capturing the vacant title with a win over Ciryl Gane. He then defended the belt once against veteran Stipe Miocic, winning via third-round TKO at UFC 309.
With a professional record of 28-1, Jones owns a perfect 16-0 record in UFC title fights and is one of only nine fighters to have held titles in two different weight classes. At the age of 21, he became the youngest champion in UFC history after defeating Mauricio "Shogun" Rua in 2011.
Despite his brilliance inside the Octagon, Jon Jones’ career has been marred by a series of legal troubles and doping controversies, including a felony hit-and-run charge in 2015 and a one-year suspension in 2016 following a failed drug test.
Tom Aspinall steps into the spotlight
With Jones stepping away, Tom Aspinall now finds himself at the helm of the heavyweight division. Dana White praised the British fighter’s patience and professionalism throughout the uncertain period.
“Tom Aspinall is a good guy. He’s been incredible through this whole process. He’s going to be a great heavyweight champion for us,” said White.
The UFC is set to begin discussions with Aspinall next week to finalize details of his first title defense.
While fans may be disappointed not to witness a showdown between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, the heavyweight division is far from short on excitement as a new era begins