Jon Jones Pronounces UFC Retirement, Tom Aspinall Named Heavyweight Champion

Jon Jones formally introduced his retirement from UFC on Saturday evening.

“This choice comes after quite a lot of reflection, and I wish to take a second to precise my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve skilled over time,” Jones wrote on social media.

“From the primary time I stepped into the Octagon, my purpose was to push the boundaries of what was attainable on this sport. Changing into the youngest UFC champion in historical past, defending my title towards a few of the greatest fighters on the planet, and sharing unforgettable moments with followers throughout the globe—these are recollections I’ll cherish without end. I’ve confronted unbelievable highs and a few powerful lows, however each problem has taught me one thing helpful and made me stronger, each as a fighter and as an individual. 

I wish to thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter, Lorenzo, God, my household, coaches, teammates, and all of the followers who’ve stood by me by each chapter. Your unwavering help and perception in me have been my basis. To my fellow fighters, thanks for bringing out the perfect in me and for the respect we’ve shared inside and out of doors the cage. 

As I shut this chapter of my life, I stay up for new alternatives and challenges forward. MMA will at all times be part of who I’m, and I’m excited to see how I can proceed to contribute to the game and encourage others in new methods. Thanks all for being a part of this unbelievable journey with me. The most effective is but to come back.”

Jones was beforehand the UFC heavyweight champion, whereas Tom Aspinall was the interim heavyweight champion.

Jones, 37, leaves the game with a near-perfect 28-1 document. His sole loss got here in July 2022 when he injured his knee towards Curtis Blaydes. Jones turned the youngest champion in UFC historical past when he took the sunshine heavyweight title in 2011 at 23 years previous, ultimately transitioning to the heavyweight division in 2023.

Previous to his retirement, Jones had been dealing with stress to vacate his title due to his extended inactivity and delays in defending towards Aspinall. 

In 2023, following a three-year hiatus, Jones made his return to the UFC for his first heavyweight battle, happening to defeat Ciryl Gane within the first spherical and declare the belt that had been vacated by Francis Ngannou simply earlier than, per Sportsnet. Jones defended his belt towards former long-time champion Stipe Miocic in Nov. 2024. He revealed earlier this month that he hadn’t “actually labored out” since that victory at UFC 309, per Bleacher Report.

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