Jon Jones had 247 words to say in his lengthy retirement post, but not one of them was directed at new champion Tom Aspinall.
On Saturday night at a press conference following UFC Baku, Dana White confirmed that legendary two-weight UFC champion Jones had retired from MMA. He has since confirmed that news, and is now looking into other avenues after a career that places him among the sport’s greats.
Jones retires with a record of 28-1, which for all intents and purposes is undefeated given the farcical nature of his one disqualification loss. He is widely considered the best fighter to ever compete in MMA, and has been world champion at heavyweight and light-heavyweight.
Jon Jones breaks his silence with first post since UFC retirement
After Dana White unceremoniously announced his retirement for him, Jon Jones has taken to X to share his thoughts on hanging up the gloves. He wrote a lengthy statement which concluded with an insistence that “the best is yet to come”.
“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.
“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 [White], Hunter [Campbell], Lorenzo [Fertitta], 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.”
Moments later, he thanked fans for their responses by adding: “I’m completely overwhelmed right now, I love you guys so much. Thank you.”
Tom Aspinall and Dana White speak out as Jon Jones retires
The announcement from White of Jones’ retirement was almost comically low key given his contributions to the sport. He simply answered a media question at a post-fight press conference by telling the room that Jones had retired.
“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,” he said bluntly, before declaring that “Jon Jones is officially retired and Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.”
Aspinall, for his part, opted against goading Jones and instead just promised a more exciting title reign than his predecessor had provided. “For you fans,” he wrote. “It’s time to get this Heavyweight division going. An active Undisputed Champion.”