UFC CEO Dana White dropped a bombshell during the UFC Baku Post-Fight Press Conference on Saturday. White announced Jon Jones had retired and Tom Aspinall is the new undisputed heavyweight champion.
“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,” White said. “Jon Jones is officially retired.”
Shortly after White broke the news, Jones released a statement via social media. In the statement, Jones thanked the fight promotion, his family, team and fans.
“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.
“I want to thank the UFC, Dana, Hunter [Campbell], Lorenzo [Fertitta] , 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.”
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
Jones, 37, last fought at UFC 309, successfully defending the title against former two-time champion Stipe Miocic. The fight promotion had been working diligently to book a title unification bout between Jones and interim titleholder Tom Aspinall but couldn’t reach an agreement with Jones. Aspinall has been sidelined for the last year waiting to see if a fight against Jones would materialize.
With Jones officially retired, Aspinall is eager to get back inside the octagon. He reacted to Jones’ retirement news via social media.
“For you fans. It’s time to get this Heavyweight division going 🔥 An active Undisputed Champion 👊,” he wrote on Instagram.
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