Retirement talk continues to follow Jon Jones, but the former UFC heavyweight champion keeps leaving the door open for another combat sports chapter.
Jones has not competed since his dominant win over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. Since then, the longtime UFC star has repeatedly hinted at retirement while also teasing potential fights and crossover opportunities.
That uncertainty resurfaced again after Jones appeared at MVP MMA 1 last weekend. During the event, he exchanged words with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, fueling fresh discussion about a possible clash between the two stars.
Boxing Talks Could Await Jones In Russia
The latest development centers around a possible move into boxing.Jon Jones is reportedly preparing to head to Russia, where he will be a guest at the IBA Bare Knuckle tournament. The visit could include discussions with International Boxing Association president Umar Kremlev about future boxing opportunities.
Kremlev openly embraced the idea of Jones stepping into the ring:
“If we are talking about a potential move into boxing for Jon Jones, these are the kinds of stories that interest us.”
“Jones in the ring against Daniel Cormier or Francis Ngannou, but under boxing rules — these are the fights that the whole world is talking about and waiting for.”
Potential boxing matchups involving Jones and longtime rival Daniel Cormier would certainly attract attention, especially considering the history between the two former champions.
UFC Contract Questions Remain
Even with growing interest from outside promoters, one major obstacle remains in place. Jones is still under UFC contract, making outside competition difficult to arrange. The UFC has historically maintained strict control over crossover opportunities involving active or contracted fighters unless the financial upside is massive.
Jones recently suggested he would like to leave his UFC deal, though there has been no indication the promotion is willing to allow that.
At this stage, the Russia trip appears to be another twist in the unpredictable future of Jones’ combat sports career. Whether it leads to an actual boxing match or simply more headlines remains unclear.