Jon Jones Opens Up About UFC Negotiations, Likely 2025 Return

UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has announced that he is discussing with UFC executives about a potential return to the Octagon in 2025.

This news follows his dominant victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, a fight many believed could be the swan song for one of MMA’s greatest fighters.

Jones, speaking at the Dirty Boxing Championships event, shared his optimism about returning to action.

“Right now, the UFC and I are in talks to see what happens next,” Jones said. “I’m back in the gym, I’m training, and I feel really great. My team is fully behind me, and we’ll be ready for whatever opportunity comes our way.”

He added, “Yes, I will be competing in 2025, more than likely.”

Aspinall or Pereira: Who’s Next?

Fans and analysts are speculating about Jones’ next opponent, with two names leading the conversation. Interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who recently defeated Sergei Pavlovich, appears to be the frontrunner.

Aspinall has openly campaigned for a fight against Jones, calling it “a dream matchup.”

However, Jones has also hinted at a potential showdown with Alex Pereira, the current light heavyweight champion. This would mark a rare and high-stakes crossover between two champions from different divisions.

Jones has expressed his desire for what he calls “mega fights,” and his comments have only added fuel to the fire. “There’s a [money figure], but I’m not going to discuss that publicly,” Jones said when pressed about his financial demands.

Legacy in the Making

Jon Jones is widely regarded as the greatest fighter in UFC history, a title he has earned through years of dominance. His victory over Miocic solidified his position at the top of the heavyweight division, a move up from his previous reign as the light heavyweight champion.

Despite his unmatched record, Jones has faced his share of controversies, including legal troubles and disputes with the UFC over pay.

His previous negotiations with UFC President Dana White were marred by disagreements, with Jones once demanding a purse comparable to boxing heavyweight Deontay Wilder.

Dana White’s Perspective

Dana White, the UFC’s outspoken president, has promised that Jones will be “well-compensated” for his next fight, especially if it involves Aspinall. “It’ll probably be the biggest fight we’ve ever done,” White said in a recent interview, signaling that the UFC is prepared to go all-in on a Jones mega-event.

The Clock is Ticking

As 2024 draws to a close, the anticipation around Jon Jones’ next fight continues to build. Whether it’s Aspinall, Pereira, or another unexpected opponent, one thing is certain: Jones is far from finished.

Fans eager to see how these negotiations unfold are now waiting for UFC’s official announcement.

One way or another, 2025 promises to be another milestone year for Jon “Bones” Jones.