Jon Jones is open to being a part of the UFC White House card even if he doesn’t land the main event.
“Bones” has been pushing for a spot on the historic card, but UFC CEO Dana White has expressed hesitation. White told reporters he doesn’t fully trust Jones in high-profile situations, citing his legal history and the fiasco when Jones pulled out of a verbal agreement to fight reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall.
Jones recently travelled to Russia and took some fan questions while there. When asked about a potential matchup with UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira at the White House event, Jones kept things measured.
“It’s a little bit out of my hands,” Jones said on X. “I’m getting in shape, I’m lean and completely capable of hopping into a training camp. I guess time will tell. Either way, life is good.”
When a fan asked whether he’d still compete if he didn’t get top billing, Jones didn’t hesitate.
“Absolutely!”
Jones hasn’t fought since defeating Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024. That marked his first—and last—successful UFC Heavyweight Championship defense before he was stripped of the belt after initially announcing his retirement from pro MMA.
He quickly walked back his retirement claims and turned his attention to a potential showdown with Pereira at the White House event. While UFC brass initially dismissed the idea, Pereira began publicly calling for the fight, and it now appears the matchup is exactly what officials are hoping for, according to Ariel Helwani.
Following his brief retirement in June, Jones has made it clear he wants to fight at the upcoming White House card, expected sometime in June 2026. The logistics for the event are still being finalized, but Jones is ready to compete, even if it’s not in the main event.
Jones’ willingness to be flexible may stem from White’s public reluctance to book him on the card, citing the 38-year-old’s history of off-the-cage issues that have affected both his career and the UFC’s plans.
While in Russia, Jones also shared photos and videos from his visit to Chechnya, where he was hosted by the head of the Chechen Republic, Ramzan Kadyrov. Kadyrov, a controversial figure sanctioned by the United States in 2017 for alleged human rights violations, was described by Jones simply as “a great host.”
Jones may not have control over the White House matchup yet, but one thing is clear: he’s ready for action whenever the UFC calls.
