In a move that has stunned the mixed martial arts world, legendary fighter Jon Jones has officially announced his retirement from the UFC, bringing an end to one of the most decorated careers in heavyweight MMA history.
The heavyweight title has now been handed to interim champion Tom Aspinall.
The announcement was made on Saturday, June 21, during a press conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, by UFC President Dana White, who confirmed that Jones contacted UFC officials late Friday night to inform them of his decision to step away from the sport after a two-year reign as heavyweight champion.
Jones, 37, had previously indicated a reluctance to defend his title against Aspinall, leading to growing speculation about his future. That speculation ended when Jones released a detailed statement on his official X account, confirming his retirement.
“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 highlighted career milestones such as becoming the youngest UFC champion in history and defending his title against top-tier opponents. He also acknowledged the highs and lows of his path, thanking the UFC, fans, teammates, and fellow fighters for their roles in his journey.
“I’ve faced incredible highs and some tough lows, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and made me stronger,” he said. “MMA will always be a part of who I am… The best is yet to come.”
Jones ends his career with an exceptional professional record of 28 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no contest. He captured the vacant UFC heavyweight title in March 2023 and last defended it against Stipe Miocic in November that same year.
Meanwhile, Aspinall, who has held the interim belt for 18 months, has now been declared the undisputed heavyweight champion. While fans and analysts long anticipated a unification bout between the two fighters, ongoing delays and Jones’ absence had already prompted calls for the UFC to strip him of the title.
The decision marks the end of an era for the UFC and sets a new course for the heavyweight division under Aspinall’s leadership.
