Jon Jones, a legendary figure in mixed martial arts, has officially retired, leading to interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall being elevated to the undisputed title holder, UFC president Dana White announced on Saturday during a press conference in Azerbaijan.
“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,” White stated. “Jon Jones is officially retired. Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.”
Jones, who turns 38 on July 19, boasts an impressive 28-1 record, including 11 TKOs, and has captured UFC titles in both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. He was set for a highly anticipated unification bout with Aspinall, 32, who became the interim heavyweight champion in November 2023 when an injured Jones was unable to compete.
Following White’s announcement, Aspinall took to Instagram, saying, “For you fans. It’s time to get this heavyweight division going. An active undisputed champion.”
Jones last fought on November 16, 2024, winning by third-round TKO against Stipe Miocic. He has won six consecutive bouts since a no contest with Daniel Cormier on July 29, 2017.
Interestingly, White’s announcement contradicted Jones’ comments from Thursday on the “Full Send” podcast, where he stated, “I don’t want to say that I’m retired because fighting’s in my blood.” He expressed uncertainty about his future in the sport, saying, “When the itch comes back — and if it comes back — then I’ll do it with my whole heart.”
Jones has had a tumultuous history outside the octagon, becoming the youngest UFC title holder at age 23 with a victory over Mauricio Rua. Despite his success, he has faced legal issues and a year-long suspension in 2016 for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs, a result he disputes.
