Dana White has revealed that Jon Jones has retired from the UFC in a bombshell announcement.
Jones, arguably the greatest MMA fighter of all time, was the promotion’s undisputed heavyweight champion but his title has now been passed to Tom Aspinall.
White made the announcement in an explosive press conference in Baku, Azerbaijan on Saturday.
He revealed Jones called on Friday night to inform White and UFC officials that he would not be fighting again.
Jones then posted a lengthy statement on social media, which read: ‘Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC. This decision comes after a lot of reflection, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve experienced over the years.
‘From the first time I stepped into the Octagon, my goal was to push the boundaries of what was possible in this sport. Becoming the youngest UFC champion in history, defending my title against some of the best fighters in the world, and sharing unforgettable moments with fans across the globe—these are memories I’ll cherish forever.
‘I’ve faced incredible highs and some tough lows, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and made me stronger, both as a fighter and as a person.
‘I want to thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter, Lorenzo, God, my family, coaches, teammates, and all the fans who have stood by me through every chapter. Your unwavering support and belief in me have been my foundation. To my fellow fighters, thank you for bringing out the best in me and for the respect we’ve shared inside and outside the cage.
‘As I close this chapter of my life, I look forward to new opportunities and challenges ahead. MMA will always be a part of who I am, and I’m excited to see how I can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways. Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey with me. The best is yet to come.
Jones admitted earlier this week that he had no interest in fighting as he continued to stall on a bout with Aspinall.
Jones, who ends his career with a 28-1 career record, won the vacant heavyweight title in March 2023. But the 37-year-old has not fought since defending it in November against Stipe Miocic.
Aspinall has held the interim belt for 18 months but a unification fight between the two is yet to materialize. The delay led a number of fighters to call for Jones to be stripped of his title.
‘I don’t want to say that I’m retired because fighting is in my blood,’ Jones recently told the Full Send Podcast.
‘Right now, I could really care less about fighting… When the itch comes back, if it comes back, then I’ll do it with my whole heart.
White previously said that Jones had agreed to fight Aspinall but they were awaiting paperwork.
But his patience was wearing thin with the American and White set a deadline for the star to arrange the fight, which White described as the ‘biggest heavyweight fight in UFC history’.
White also revealed that the UFC will now work with Aspinall in the coming days to book his first title defense.
‘I obviously feel bad for Tom that he lost all that time and money, but we’ll make it up to him. Tom Aspinall is a good guy. He’s been incredible through this whole process that we’ve gone through,’ White said.
‘He’s been willing to do anything – fight him anywhere and anytime and do this, and now he’s like, “I’ll fight anybody. You tell me who, and I’ll fight him.” So, Aspinall has been great. He’s going to be a great heavyweight champion for us, and I’m excited to work with him.’
