On May 2, 2025, UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones hinted at a return to the octagon through an Instagram post, showcasing his collection of fight posters and leaving space for his latest win over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024. The post underscored his pride in his achievements and suggested his fighting journey continues, amid talks of a title unification bout with interim champion Tom Aspinall.
Jones, a former light heavyweight champion, claimed the heavyweight title in March 2023 by submitting Ciryl Gane at UFC 285. His first defense against Miocic, a former champion, came after a nearly two-year injury layoff, ending in a third-round TKO. With a 28-1 record, Jones aims to expand his legacy, as his Instagram post indicates a planned 2025 comeback. A potential clash with Aspinall, who defended his interim title in July 2024, is targeted for International Fight Week in July 2025.
The Instagram post displayed fight posters from Jones’ career, each marking victories over opponents like Daniel Cormier and Alexander Gustafsson, cementing his status as one of MMA’s greatest. He noted the unframed Miocic poster, citing a busy schedule, but emphasized the collection’s significance as a testament to his career.
Jones’ Vision for Growth
Jones reflected:
“As you can see… still haven’t framed or hung the Stipe fight yet. Been moving a million miles an hour lately. But there’s one last perfect spot left on my wall of victory. And looking at this wall—it really hits me. This isn’t just artwork. It’s legacy. Every poster tells a story. Different chapters. Different homes. Different battles. Wins that meant the world at the time. Fights that made history.”
He acknowledged past controversies, including a 2015 hit-and-run and drug test issues, but described his career as “undeniably legendary.”
He continued:
“I’ve said it before, my career hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been undeniably legendary. Epic. Special. Just a few words that come to mind. Legend after legend. Era after era. What I’m most proud of? I’ve evolved. I’m so much more than just a fighter. I’m a man growing stronger in my faith, a family man, a loyal brother to my team, a businessman, a leader, a man for my community. And I know—without a doubt—my mother would be proud of the man I’ve become.”
His roles as co-owner of Dirty Boxing Championship and a community figure in Albuquerque, New Mexico, reflect this growth.
Jones concluded:
“The wall’s almost filled… but trust me, the story’s still being written. The best is yet to come,” signaling his intent to fight again.
UFC CEO Dana White has prioritized a bout with Aspinall, who defeated Curtis Blaydes in July 2024. Negotiations have faced delays, with Jones seeking a higher purse, as stated in a November 2024 interview with The Schmo. Aspinall has voiced frustration, but Jones’ training suggests commitment.
While Jones has mentioned a potential fight with light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, White insists on the Aspinall matchup. Some, like Ben Askren in February 2025, speculate Jones may retire, but his post indicates otherwise. With UFC 317 in July 2025 lacking a main event, Jones’ return could headline, fulfilling his promise of more historic fights.
