Jon Jones Retires: Tom Aspinall Named UFC Heavyweight Champion by Dana White
What was expected to be an announcement for a blockbuster heavyweight bout turned into a seismic shift in the UFC landscape. UFC President Dana White confirmed Saturday that longtime UFC legend Jon Jones has officially retired — and that Tom Aspinall is now the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion.
Speaking from Baku, Azerbaijan, White dropped the stunning news.
“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,” White told reporters. “Jon Jones is officially retired. Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.”
The news marks a dramatic turn of events. Fans and fighters alike had been anticipating a showdown between Jones and Aspinall — a passing-of-the-torch moment that now will never happen inside the Octagon.
The End of a Storied Era
Jones, 37, retires as one of the most decorated fighters in MMA history. He first rose to prominence as a dominant light heavyweight champion, defending his title multiple times with wins over elite competition. After a three-year hiatus, Jones returned in March 2023 and claimed the vacant UFC heavyweight title with a quick submission win over Ciryl Gane.
Later that year, in November 2024, Jones defended his belt in emphatic fashion, knocking out Stipe Miocic with a spinning back kick — a victory that cemented his claim as a two-division champion. Yet, after that title defense, Jones disappeared from the spotlight.
As the months went on without a confirmed next fight, criticism mounted. Some fans and analysts believed Jones was intentionally avoiding a dangerous matchup with Aspinall, who had established himself as a top contender and interim champ. The delay only intensified speculation.
Legal Trouble Resurfaces
Complicating matters, Jon Jones is now facing renewed legal trouble.
Late Saturday, the Albuquerque Journal reported that Jones has been accused of leaving the scene of an accident that occurred in February. A criminal summons was issued Tuesday, June 17, and Jones has reportedly been ordered to appear in court for a bond arraignment on July 24.
While it’s unclear how much this incident influenced his decision to retire, it certainly adds another chapter to the complicated off-cage legacy of the former champ, who has faced a string of legal issues throughout his career.
Aspinall Gets His Crown
Tom Aspinall, 32, had been chasing a fight with Jones for months. After claiming the interim title with an explosive first-round finish of Sergei Pavlovich, Aspinall lobbied hard for a unification bout. He went as far as calling himself the “rightful” champion while accusing Jones of delaying the matchup.
White had hinted earlier this year that a fight between the two was in the works but had yet to be finalized with signed contracts. At the time, White also warned that if Jones didn’t commit to a bout, he might be forced to vacate the title.
That moment has now arrived — not due to UFC pressure, but by Jones’ own decision to walk away.
Aspinall, now the official heavyweight champion, becomes the first Brit to hold the undisputed UFC heavyweight title and a central figure in the next era of the division.
Jones Says Goodbye — for Now
Just hours after White’s announcement, Jones confirmed his retirement with a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“As I close this chapter of my life, I look forward to new opportunities and challenges ahead,” Jones wrote. “MMA will always be a part of who I am, and I’m excited to see how I can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways. Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey with me. The best is yet to come.”
In the post, Jones reflected on the high points of his career and thanked UFC leadership, coaches, teammates, and fans for their support over the years.
However, his comments leave the door slightly ajar.
Just days before his retirement, Jones appeared on a podcast and expressed uncertainty about his fighting future.
What’s Next for the Heavyweight Division?
With Aspinall now at the top of the mountain, attention turns to what’s next for the British star. Potential challengers include former interim champ Ciryl Gane, rising powerhouse Sergei Pavlovich, or even a returning Stipe Miocic.
For the UFC, Jones’ departure closes one of the most iconic chapters in MMA history — but also opens the door for new stars, rivalries, and defining moments.
One thing’s for sure: the heavyweight throne belongs to Tom Aspinall now. And with his mix of power, precision, and personality, the new champ might just be ready to launch a legacy of his own