Jon Jones Reacts to Retirement: 'These Are Memories I’ll Cherish Forever'

Jon Jones addressed his retirement only after Dana White officially announced it.

Jones has been unwilling to fight interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall for over a year. While White teased that the fight was close to being finalized on multiple occasions, it never came to fruition. Fans even signed an online petition to strip Jones of the title as the UFC heavyweight title picture stayed stalled. 

However, White started sounding less confident about the booking in a recent interview with Jim Rome. The wait finally ended with White’s announcement at the UFC Baku post-fight presser. White said Jones is officially retired, and Aspinall is promoted to undisputed UFC heavyweight champion. 

“Bones” reacted to the announcement, expressing his gratitude to his friends, teammates, fans, and the UFC for a career that has been etched in history forever. Jones’ statement on social media is as follows:

“Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC. 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.

’Bones’ Reflects on Retirement Announcement

“I want to thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter, Lorenzo, God, my family, coaches, teammates, and all the fans who have stood by me through every chapter. Your unwavering support and belief in me have been my foundation. To my fellow fighters, thank you for bringing out the best in me and for the respect we’ve shared inside and outside the cage.

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.

“I’m completely overwhelmed right now, I love you guys so much. Thank you.”

Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC. 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…

— Jonny Meat (@JonnyBones) June 22, 2025

I’m completely overwhelmed right now, I love you guys so much. Thank you.

— Jonny Meat (@JonnyBones) June 22, 2025