Jon Jones has retired from the UFC.
Jones shared a lengthy message announcing his retirement on social media.
“Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC,” he 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,” he continued. “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.”
Jones' retirement came amid the UFC’s attempts to get him to fight Tom Aspinall, who was the No. 1 contender in the UFC heavyweight division. Jones, who held the title, hadn’t made time for the fight.
Dana White confirmed Jones’ retirement on June 21 when speaking with reporters, announcing Aspinall ascent to heavyweight champion.
"Jon Jones called us last night and retired. Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC," White said.
Aspinall reacted to Jones’ retirement by revealing his excitement to be the champion.
"For you fans. It’s time to get this Heavyweight division going ... An active Undisputed Champion,” he wrote on Instagram.
On Thursday (June 19), Jones hinted that he’d retire soon during an appearance on the Full Send podcast.
"I don't want to say that I'm retired because fighting's in my blood," Jones said. "Right now, I could really care less about fighting. I've been doing it my whole life at a very high level and when the itch comes back—and if it comes back—then I'll do it with my whole heart, do it to the best of my abilities."
Jones also suggested he’d vacate the UFC title before he was stripped of it for not fighting Aspinall.
“I haven’t really worked out since my last fight in New York City,” wrote Jones on X. “Honestly, I believe it’s been in the UFC’s best interest to keep presenting me as the company’s champion—not Tom.
“I’ve just been playing the role of the company man by doing nothing at all… and holding the position,” he continued. “And truthfully, it’s been incredibly lucrative. I’ve made more money off of Tom being the interim champ than Tom has himself.
“It sucks to see the rest of the division get slowed down like this, but that has nothing to do with me. I don’t pull the strings,” he concluded. “And remember, you can’t strip a guy like me at this point I give the belt up freely. Veni, vidi, vici.”