Jones may have to submit UFC crown after inactivity

Jon ‘Bones’ Jones may be the UFC’s most prized fighter ever but it seems his time in the octagon is nearer an end.

UFC president Dana White says he cannot stop Jones from retiring, despite the heavyweight champ having “agreed” to fight Tom Aspinall.

The 37-year-old American is currently in the final chapter of his UFC career, but it has the potential for a very bitter ending.

Fans have urged White to Jones of his title having only defended the belt once since winning it in March 2023.

Jones, a former king at light-heavy, was crowned heavyweight champ after submitting Ciryl Gane at UFC 285, and after dealing with an injury, retained the title by stopping Stipe Miocic in their main event bout last November.

Jones was then meant to face Brit Tom Aspinall, who is the interim champ, but has continuously avoided any conversations of making that fight happen.

White was responding to the social media activity of the UFC heavyweight champion, who suggested he was retired before calling out ex-UFC fighter Francis Ngannou.

With Ngannou fuelling speculation he is open to a return to the UFC, White played down the chances even if it was to fight Jones. “It’s Aspinall’s fight,” White said.

Aspinall, 32, has been the interim champion for 18 months and has publicly said he believes Jones is retired. Jones has not signed a contract.