Former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones recently hinted at potentially reversing his retirement plans.
Jones`s abrupt retirement announcement last month surprised the MMA community, seemingly ending hopes for a long-awaited clash with Tom Aspinall.
However, only weeks after stepping away, Jones has suggested a future return to competition. His manager confirmed this by revealing the legendary fighter has re-entered the UFC`s anti-doping program, keeping his options open.
Speculation about Jones`s potential comeback was further fueled when U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of hosting a UFC event at The White House.
Jon Jones Addresses Potential White House Showdown with Tom Aspinall
Trump created a stir in the MMA world by proposing that UFC CEO Dana White set up an Octagon on The White House lawn for an event in 2026, commemorating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. The UFC`s response to the idea was non-committal, stating that more information would be available later.
Trump and Jones share a friendly relationship, having interacted cageside after Jones`s last victory over Stipe Miocic. Trump is a vocal UFC fan and has previously invited fighters like Jones to Washington D.C.
After Aspinall was elevated to undisputed heavyweight champion following Jones`s retirement, many believed the highly anticipated fight between them would never materialize. However, Trump`s recent suggestion has led to renewed speculation that the matchup could potentially happen in 2026.
Following this, a digital artist on Instagram shared an image depicting Jones knocking out Aspinall at The White House, with Trump and others watching from cageside.
Jones quickly noticed the artwork and acknowledged the possibility of the scenario becoming reality.
His comment on the post was a simple, three-word phrase:
“I like this.”
Jones`s brief response ignited excitement among UFC fans online.
Fans reacted enthusiastically, with comments urging the former champion to make the fight happen and solidify his legacy.
UFC CEO Dana White has also expressed positive sentiment towards Trump`s idea for a White House event. The UFC last held an event in Washington D.C. in 2019.
Jones Re-Enters Drug Pool as Fans React to Potential Return
Having re-entered the UFC`s drug testing pool, Jones must be available for testing for at least six months before he is eligible to compete again. This timeline suggests his earliest possible return to the Octagon would be January 2026.
In the meantime, Tom Aspinall is expected to make his first defense of the undisputed heavyweight title later this year. Potential opponents mentioned include Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov.
If the UFC does move forward with plans for a White House event, it could potentially feature major stars, including a highly speculated bout between Jones and Aspinall. Given the historical context of the 250th anniversary of the United States gaining independence from England, a fight between the top American and British heavyweights would undoubtedly be a significant attraction for the July 4th celebrations.
Percy Harlow