UFC Star Jon Jones Officially Retires: ‘I’ve Hung Up My Gloves’
UFC star Jon Jones has officially announced his retirement from competitive fighting. The 38-year-old former two-division champion confirmed his decision in a recent interview, stating, “My gloves are hung up. I’m chilling these days.”
Career Overview
Jones has had a storied career in mixed martial arts, recognized as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history. His professional fighting record includes:
- Two championship reigns in the light heavyweight division.
- Eleven successful title defenses, showcasing his dominance.
- A victory over Stipe Miocic to defend the heavyweight title, his last fight at UFC 309 in November 2024.
Recent Developments
The fighter’s activity was sporadic since 2019, with only three bouts in that timeframe. Jones briefly toyed with retirement earlier in 2025 but later expressed interest in a heavyweight title fight against Alex Pereira, requesting to be released from the UFC when negotiations did not progress.
During a recent vlog on Red Corner MMA, Jones expressed a shift in focus. He stated he is now “business Jon Jones, no more fighter Jon Jones.” This marks a significant transition for a competitor known for his aggressive fighting style.
Responses to the Bare Knuckle Fight Suggestion
At a recent IBA Bare Knuckle event, Jones was approached by UFC veteran Yoel Romero about switching to bare-knuckle fighting. Jones quickly declined the suggestion, stating, “I don’t want to get punched.” Romero highlighted the dangers of bare-knuckle combat, emphasizing the brutality of strikes like knees and elbows.
Jones’s last fight solidified his legacy as a champion. However, with his recent retirement announcement, fans may reflect on a career that has left an indelible mark on the sport.
