Jon Jones is already trolling fans about the potential of a UFC return, just days after emotionally announcing his retirement from fighting.
Legendary two-division world champion Jones announced last Saturday that he was hanging up his gloves after UFC boss Dana White announced it at a press conference following UFC Baku. He had been in talks to fight Tom Aspinall for the undisputed heavyweight title, but instead opted to retire.
Now, less than a week after his big announcement, Jones is beginning to joke with fans about the potential of a return to the cage. He also claimed that he is ‘not really retired’ as he plans to travel America and the world teaching people about MMA and other endeavours.
Jon Jones teases octagon return and claims he ‘isn’t really retired’
Jon Jones just last week confirmed the news that he was going to be retiring from MMA following almost two decades in the UFC. He is widely considered one of the greatest fighters of all time, but was widely slammed for opting against one last fight against interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
Now, just days after his emotional retirement, Jones has been tweeting with fans and teasing a potential return. When one follower wrote “Jon Jones will be back,” the former two-weight champion replied: “Wouldn’t that be something?”
And he also told one fan who wished him a happy retirement: “I appreciate it, but I’m really not retired. I’ll be all over the country and all over the world. Meeting people who love the sport the most.”
Jon Jones made emotional retirement post on Saturday night after Dana White announcement
The actual retirement announcement from Dana White was relatively unceremonious, simply replying to a reporter’s question. But Jones quickly took to social media to make a more lengthy and emotional statement to fans.
“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 oth