Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier have one of the longest and most heated rivalries in UFC history. They fought twice in the Octagon, with Jones winning both times, although one win was later changed to a No Contest because of a failed drug test. Outside the cage, they have argued in interviews, press events, and on social media, keeping their rivalry alive for years. Even now, after Cormier retired and Jones is nearing the end of his career, the tension between them continues. Recently, their feud even surfaced during Thanksgiving, showing just how deep their rivalry runs.
Thanksgiving Feud Ignites Online
Over Thanksgiving, the rivalry flared up online. Cormier commented on a clip showing Jones during a recent visit to Russia, asking,
“Why is Jon Jones not with his family on Thanksgiving holiday?”
Daniel Cormier called out Jon Jones under this video of him eating food in Chechnya 👀 pic.twitter.com/XfZHsEPiza
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) November 26, 2025
Jones quickly responded with a video message that combined humor and a subtle jab at his former rival. Petting a dog, he said:
“I wanted to take the time out to say Happy Thanksgiving to the people who are not with their friends and family today. Happy Thanksgiving, and if no one tells you that they love you today, I love you and Dutch [the dog] loves you… Have a blessed day, we love you.”
He then delivered a sharper remark directed at Cormier, recalling their fights.
“Imagine a man getting his a– kicked,” Jones wrote. “And years later he’s still pondering how I spend my holidays. Brother, that’s not concern that’s a long term rental. Utilities included.”
Jon Jones responded to Daniel Cormier 😬
“I own a rent free mansion in your head for the rest of your life.” https://t.co/BKKLLnWBOo pic.twitter.com/gqWHedGslK
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) November 28, 2025
Jon Jones has spent the past few weeks in Russia, where he says he is working on business ventures. On social media, he revealed that he recently signed a significant ambassador deal in the country, though he could not share full details.
During his trip, Jones attended the 18th birthday party of Ramzan Kadyrov’s son, the Chechen leader who is sanctioned in the U.S. At the celebration, Jones was seen firing exotic weapons, including an RPG. He has also been training with Chechen fighter Khamzat Chimaev.
Jones’s association with Kadyrov has raised eyebrows internationally. When questioned online about ethical concerns, Jones replied on X that he “doesn’t know or see anything” and added that Kadyrov has been a great host, posting a zipped-mouth emoji.
Jones has been moving between periods of retirement and potential return since giving up his heavyweight title. He has expressed interest in fighting Alex Pereira at a UFC White House event scheduled for 2026.
In a recent online Q&A, Jones shared that he was asked to participate in a charity grappling match against longtime rival Daniel Cormier. Jones agreed and confidently predicted a 3-0 outcome in his favor.
Jones and Cormier have faced off twice in the UFC, with Jones winning their 2015 light-heavyweight fight by decision. Their ongoing rivalry continues to attract attention, both in and out of the Octagon.
