Jon Jones sparks comeback buzz. Jon Jones may have stepped away from active competition, but the former two-division UFC champion isn’t completely ruling out another walk to the Octagon.
After months of speculation surrounding his future, Jones recently hinted that a return remains a possibility. While responding to fans on social media, the 38-year-old made it clear that retirement may not be permanent, revealing that he still feels physically capable of competing at the highest level.
“Never say never,” Jones wrote on social media when asked about fighting again. “Right now we are finishing up Gable‘s training camp. He’s looking extraordinary. I’ve been his main training partner, and I’m moving like I never left. Stem cells must be working.”
Jones revealed earlier this year he had “severe arthritis” and “already qualify for a hip replacement” after decades of training in wrestling and MMA. He hasn’t fought since a third-round knockout over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, and said “I went to bed in so much pain” during that camp. Jones has been heavily involved in preparing Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson for his UFC debut at UFC 329, serving as one of his primary training partners. According to Jones, working closely with the decorated wrestler has helped him stay in elite fighting shape despite not competing since his victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024.
Earlier this year, Jones revealed that years of wrestling and MMA had left him dealing with severe arthritis in his hips, even admitting he had been told he already qualified for a hip replacement. He credited stem cell therapy with dramatically improving his mobility and reducing the pain that plagued him during training for the Miocic fight. Although Jones has not committed to another fight, his latest comments are a significant shift from previous statements suggesting he had little left to prove in the sport, Instead, he appears to be enjoying life back in the gym while keeping the possibility of another UFC appearance alive.
Jones remains one of the most accomplished fighters in MMA history, having captured UFC championships at both light heavyweight and heavyweight while building a résumé that includes victories over multiple former champions and Hall of Fame-caliber opponents. Whether he ultimately returns or not remains uncertain, but his latest remarks have reignited speculation among fans about one final chapter in his legendary career. For now, Jones isn’t making any promises, but he also isn’t closing the door.
