Former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones recently addressed inquiries regarding a potential “Plan B” for his anticipated comeback to the Octagon.
Jones had previously surprised the MMA world by announcing his retirement last month, following a lengthy period of negotiations with the UFC. Consequently, he was stripped of his undisputed heavyweight title, which was then awarded to Tom Aspinall.
However, mere days after his retirement declaration, Jones revealed plans to return in 2026, inspired by U.S. President Donald Trump`s announcement that the UFC would host an event on the White House lawn. This comeback strategy encountered a snag when UFC CEO Dana White, on Saturday night, distanced himself from making Jones the primary headliner for that specific card.
Jones expressed his “disappointment” on social media in response to White’s remarks. Despite the uncertainty surrounding a featured bout at the White House, Jones indicated he might still step back into the cage in 2026 if the right opportunity presents itself.
Jon Jones Addresses White House Headliner Speculation
In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Jones countered a fan`s claim that White “can`t trust him” to headline a UFC pay-per-view due to past incidents.
“That’s actually not what he said, he said he can’t afford for anything to go wrong. Which is understandable, it’s hard to commit to any athletes literally still a year out,” Jones clarified.
“Let’s not twist words, my entire career has been a main event.”
Subsequently, Jones was questioned whether he would still consider returning to the Octagon for an alternative event, given White`s comments about the White House card.
He responded, “I don’t think so but right now it’s hard to say. I’m just gonna focus on staying focused, getting in the best shape and continuing to nail all the business that I already have on the table.”
Jones recently reaffirmed his intention to challenge the current UFC heavyweight titleholder upon his 2026 return. Tom Aspinall is anticipated to make his first undisputed title defense later this year, potentially against a fan-favorite contender.
The prospect of the UFC’s planned White House card had previously reinvigorated Jones’s motivation to train and get back into fighting shape after his victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. However, following White’s recent statements, the precise nature of Jones’s comeback remains uncertain.
Jon Jones Congratulates Dustin Poirier on Retirement
Jones closely watched UFC 318 in New Orleans, an event where one of the UFC’s most celebrated legends bid farewell to MMA. Dustin Poirier announced his retirement after his loss to Max Holloway at UFC 318, prompting numerous fighters to commend Poirier on his distinguished career.
Among those extending congratulations was Jones, who thanked Poirier for his “years of entertainment.” Poirier received a flood of tributes from former rivals and teammates on social media in the hours following UFC 318.
However, Jones’s comments drew some derision on X, with one fan sarcastically suggesting Poirier’s retirement was “better” than his own. Jones appeared to revel in the negative fan reaction.
Jack Thornley