Jon Jones breaks silence after retiring from the UFC as Tom Aspinall reacts with a message of his own

Jon Jones has released a lengthy statement after Dana White confirmed that the 37-year-old is retiring from the UFC while Tom Aspinall is being promoted to undisputed heavyweight champion.

In the aftermath of Saturday night's UFC Baku event, White confirmed that Jones had called him on Friday to confirm he was leaving the sport for good. He also declared Manchester-born Aspinall the new champ.

White added: "Do I regret the time that I gave [Jones to decide]? Listen, if you look at what he's accomplished in the sport, no."

A few hours later and Jones confirmed his retirement in a lengthy post on X, formerly Twitter.

"Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC," he said. "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."

Jones last fought against former two-time heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic in November. Image credit: Getty

Jones thanked the UFC and its fans for their "unwavering support" before mentioning his fellow fighters. "Thank you for bringing out the best in me and for the respect we’ve shared inside and outside the cage," he added.

"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."

Many flooded to the comments section to mention Tom Aspinall, who previously claimed that he would retire Jones without even fighting him.

And in the early hours of Sunday morning, the English fighter posted a clip of White confirming Jones' retirement in the UFC Baku press conference alongside a telling caption.

He wrote: "For you fans. It’s time to get this Heavyweight division going. An active Undisputed Champion."

Did Jones drop a subtle hint about joining another promotion?

Jones, who hasn’t fought since knocking out former two-time heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, played down a potential match-up against Aspinall for months, despite Dana White trying his utmost to make it happen.

He did, however, call out former UFC champion Francis Ngannou.

Ngannou vacated the UFC heavyweight title in January 2023, and signed a more flexible contract with Professional Fighters League, which allowed him to take part in boxing fights against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

Taking to X on the evening of June 6, Jones said: "I’m hearing Francis Ngannou is still interested… now we’re talking. That’s a real super fight. A clash of champions, not just hype. He held the UFC belt, I’ve defended mine for over a decade. Two kings from different roads. Not just one legend facing a mouth that’s hot right now, but two real legacies colliding."

Jones added: "That’s the kind of fight that actually adds something special to my story. At least from my point of view."

Ngannou has only competed in MMA once since unifying the UFC heavyweight title in 2022, knocking out PFL heavyweight tournament winner Renan Ferreira in a single round.

Jones is seen by many as the greatest fighter in MMA history. Image credit: Getty

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