Jon Jones has at last provided some clarity regarding his future in fighting.
Since his first heavyweight title defense last November, the former top-ranked fighter has been undecided about whether to retire.
This uncertainty exists even though UFC management reportedly agreed to pay him `F**K YOU MONEY` for a major unification fight against interim champion Tom Aspinall.
UFC president Dana White has been heavily pressured to strip Jones of his heavyweight belt to revitalize the stalled division.
However, Jones, a Hall of Famer, suggested he might relinquish the title himself before White and the UFC decide to take it from him.
In a series of unexpected posts on X (formerly Twitter), Jones wrote:
“I spoke to the UFC a long time ago about what my future plans were.
“I haven’t really worked out since my last fight in New York City.
“Honestly, I believe it’s been in the UFC’s best interest to keep presenting me as the company’s champion—not Tom.
“I’ve just been playing the role of the company man by doing nothing at all… and holding the position.
“And truthfully, it’s been incredibly lucrative. I’ve made more money off of Tom being the interim champ than Tom has himself.
“It sucks to see the rest of the division get slowed down like this, but that has nothing to do with me. I don’t pull the strings.
“And remember, you can’t strip a guy like me at this point. I give the belt up freely. Veni, vidi, vici.”
Many in the MMA community have accused Jones of `ducking` Aspinall, with some stating he will harm his legacy if he avoids fighting the British interim champion.
However, the ex-longtime light-heavyweight champion appears unconcerned by critics` opinions on his career and impact.
Addressing criticism, Jones shared his perspective on legacy:
“That’s the problem with some young men, you think your last outcome is your legacy.
“That’s why when many of you fall short, you can’t find the strength to return.
“But here’s the truth: your legacy isn’t your last move. Legacy is what no one can take from you.
“It’s built over time, not defined by a single win or loss.
“If you’re reading this, your legacy is far from over.
“We wake up each day with a chance to build, to add, to rise. Make yours beautiful.”
Interim champion and fan favorite Tom Aspinall has been sidelined since his quick 60-second victory over Curtis Blaydes last July.
The British fighter has expressed frustration with the lack of activity, although reports suggest an announcement regarding his next opponent is expected soon.
Percy Harlow