Jones’ Retirement Reversal
Jones shocked the MMA world when he announced his retirement in June, stirring speculation over a potential showdown with heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. Just days later, he reversed that decision, citing the special UFC White House event as a possible stage for his return.
Speaking at the MTV VMAs, Jones said: “I am not retired. I’ll be ready for the event. That’s my goal. That’s my intention, but ultimately it’s up to the boss.” His commitment to training and remaining in the UFC’s testing pool shows he’s serious about competing, even if the path back to the Octagon is uncertain.
🚨 Jon Jones says he is NOT retired and is training 5 days a week for the UFC White House event
“I’m not retired, I’m actively training 5 days a week and I’m in the UFC’s drug testing pool…
I’m training for the [White House] event, I’ll be ready for the event… but… pic.twitter.com/dS6r3uBiYZ
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) September 8, 2025
Dana White’s Scepticism
UFC President Dana White has been blunt about the likelihood of Jones fighting at the White House event, joking that the chances are “a billion-to-one.” His comments highlight the challenges of organising high-profile fights involving elite fighters with complicated histories, especially when balancing the hype around McGregor’s return.
The White House Event and McGregor
While Jones prepares in the background, Conor McGregor is set to headline the historic White House card in June 2026. Fighters will take part in ceremonial weigh-ins at the Lincoln Memorial and even be allowed to warm up inside the White House itself. McGregor, despite being Irish, is the main draw, with anticipation building worldwide for the spectacle.
For Jones, the opportunity is tantalising but uncertain. His readiness is clear, but White’s hesitation and McGregor’s headlining spot make his comeback far from guaranteed. Fans remain intrigued, debating whether Jones can negotiate his way back for one of the most unique UFC events ever.
Key Points
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Retirement Status | Jones announced retirement in June 2023 but has since confirmed he is still active. |
| Training Commitment | Training five days a week and in the UFC’s drug testing pool. |
| Dana White’s Position | Very doubtful about Jones fighting at the White House event, joking the odds are slim. |
| UFC White House Event | Scheduled for June 2026, with weigh-ins at the Lincoln Memorial and warm-ups inside the White House. |
| Headliner | Conor McGregor is the main attraction for the card. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Jon Jones officially retired?
- No. Jones has confirmed he is actively training and enrolled in the UFC’s drug testing pool.
- What did Dana White say about Jones fighting at the White House event?
- White expressed doubts, saying the chances of Jones competing are “a billion-to-one.”
- When is the UFC White House event?
- Scheduled for June 2026, featuring ceremonial weigh-ins at the Lincoln Memorial.
- Who is expected to headline the card?
- Conor McGregor is set as the main draw, despite being Irish.
- What makes the UFC White House event unique?
- Fighters will warm up inside the White House, alongside fireworks, light shows, and other celebrations.
