Jon Jones says talks have started with the UFC for his move to the heavyweight division ahead of a blockbuster showdown against Francis Ngannou or Stipe Miocic.
Jones, 33, vacated his UFC light-heavyweight title via a statement on social media on Monday.
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He took to Twitter to confirm he was relinquishing his belt.
"Just got off the phone with @Ufc, today I confirm that I'm vacating the light heavyweight championship. It's officially up for grabs. It's been an amazing journey, sincere thank you to all my competition, Ufc and most importantly you fans," he wrote.
Jones returned to Twitter to reveal the "positive" talks he had with the UFC about his eagerly-anticipated jump to the heavyweight division.
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"Just had a really positive conversation with @Ufc. Sounds like there will be negotiations for my next fight at heavy weight. All good news, the weight gaining process begins."
'Bones' said he would stay in the USADA drug testing pool and begin his process to bulk up for the heavyweight division.
The American also laid down the gauntlet by issuing a $100,000 challenge to the first UFC light-heavyweight to match his incredible record.
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On Twitter, he wrote: "First light heavyweight to win six championships in a row I'll pay $100,000 to whatever charity of their liking. I'll be waiting.
"Was going to challenge a light heavyweight to beat my world championship record but we all know that's probably not happening in this lifetime.
"Seriously, I challenge you guys to go out there and be great too. It's going to be awesome watching with that cheeseburger in my hand," he added.
Jones, meanwhile, hasn't fought since controversially defeating Dominick Reyes at UFC 247 in February.
Reyes is set to face Poland's Jan Blachowicz at UFC 253 with the vacant UFC light-heavyweight expected to be on the line.
Featured Image Credit: PA/PATopics: Jon Jones, Stipe Miocic, UFC News, Fight News, UFC, Francis Ngannou, MMA, Dana White
