Baku, Azerbaijan – June 22, 2025
In a move that marks the end of a legendary era in mixed martial arts, Jon “Bones” Jones, widely considered the greatest fighter in UFC history, has officially announced his retirement from the sport.
The news was first confirmed by UFC President Dana White during a press conference held in Baku, Azerbaijan on Saturday. White revealed that Jones personally contacted him on Friday, June 21, to inform him of his decision to step away from the Octagon for good.
“Jon called me yesterday and told me he’s done,” White stated.
“He said he’s not coming back, and after everything he’s accomplished, he’s earned that right.”
The announcement has sent shockwaves across the MMA world, effectively vacating the UFC heavyweight title, which now passes to rising star Tom Aspinall. The British fighter, who had been serving as interim heavyweight champion, is now recognized as the division’s undisputed titleholder.
Jones Confirms Retirement with Emotional Statement
Shortly after Dana White’s comments, Jon Jones took to social media to confirm the news himself. In a heartfelt message posted across his official platforms, the 36-year-old offered deep gratitude to fans, coaches, and the UFC community.
“Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC,” Jones wrote.
“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.”
Jones’ farewell statement was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fighters alike, many of whom regard him as the most talented and dominant competitor the sport has ever seen.
“To all the fans who’ve supported me through highs and lows, thank you for believing in me. To my coaches, training partners, and the UFC, I will always be grateful. It’s been a ride of a lifetime,” he added.
A Career Marked by Unmatched Dominance
Jon Jones leaves behind a remarkable legacy that few athletes in any sport can rival. With a professional record of 28 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no-contest, Jones reigned over two UFC divisions, becoming both the light heavyweight and later the heavyweight champion of the world.
His only loss came via disqualification in 2009 — a controversial result many fans still dispute. Over the years, Jones built a reputation for dismantling elite opponents with a rare blend of striking precision, wrestling dominance, and tactical genius.
Some of his most iconic victories came against the likes of Daniel Cormier, Alexander Gustafsson, Maurício “Shogun” Rua, and Stipe Miocic — the latter being the final bout of his career in November 2023, where Jones secured a convincing TKO win to capture the heavyweight crown.
Throughout his career, Jones also earned accolades such as:
- Youngest champion in UFC history (age 23)
- Longest unbeaten streak in UFC light heavyweight history
- Multiple-time “Fighter of the Year” honoree
- Most title defenses in UFC light heavyweight division
A Complicated Legacy with Unquestionable Greatness
While Jones’ in-ring brilliance is undisputed, his career has not been without controversy. The American fighter has faced numerous challenges outside the cage, including legal issues, suspensions for doping violations, and personal battles that at times threatened to derail his career.
Despite these setbacks, many believe Jones’ ability to consistently return to the top is a testament to his mental toughness and elite athleticism.
UFC commentator and Hall of Famer Joe Rogan once remarked,
“Jon Jones is the most gifted fighter I’ve ever seen. Period. He’s a genius inside the cage.”
That sentiment is widely shared by UFC fans who have followed his journey for more than a decade.
Passing the Torch: Tom Aspinall’s New Era
With Jones stepping away, the UFC has officially elevated Tom Aspinall to full champion status. The 31-year-old British powerhouse has rapidly climbed the heavyweight ranks with his explosive finishes and technical striking.
Aspinall, who was previously holding the interim belt after defeating Sergei Pavlovich, is now expected to headline a title defense later this year — possibly against former champion Ciryl Gane or surging contender Jailton Almeida.
Speaking after the announcement, Aspinall paid tribute to Jones:
“Jon Jones is the GOAT, and it’s a huge honor to follow in his footsteps. I hope to do justice to the title and represent the next generation of great fighters.”
What’s Next for Jon Jones?
Though he’s walked away from active competition, Jon Jones hinted at remaining connected to the sport in a different capacity. Rumors suggest he may take on a coaching or mentorship role, especially at his longtime gym, Jackson Wink MMA in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
In his retirement post, Jones wrote:
“This isn’t the end of my story — just a new chapter. I look forward to helping shape the next wave of champions. My love for this sport will never fade.”
With no plans for a farewell fight or comeback, Jones’ retirement appears definitive — a rare exit at the top of the game, with his legacy largely intact.
Reactions from the MMA World
Following the announcement, tributes poured in from fellow fighters, fans, and sports journalists.
UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya posted:
“Congrats on a historic career. Love or hate, Jon Jones is greatness personified.”
Retired lightweight legend Khabib Nurmagomedov also shared his respect:
“Not many can leave the sport on top. Jon did. A true champion.”
Hashtags like #ThankYouJonJones, #GOAT, and #BonesForever began trending globally within hours.
Conclusion: A Farewell to the Greatest
As Jon Jones bows out of the UFC, he leaves a massive footprint on the sport he helped elevate to global heights. Loved and criticized in equal measure, Jones redefined what it meant to be a champion — through brilliance, adversity, and evolution.
His name will forever be etched among MMA’s immortals, and while the cage door closes behind him, the legacy of Jon “Bones” Jones continues to echo.
