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Jon Jones Makes Wild Post-Retirement Move, UFC Mega-Fight Back On the Table?
Brad Penner-Imagn Images

When UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion Jon Jones abruptly walked away from MMA shortly after the UFC Baku event, his legacy, while impressive, was questioned and criticized for his steroid use, his ducking of Tom Aspinall, and his issues outside the Octagon. Recently, however, Jones abruptly changed course and took to social media to drop news that might redeem himself in the eyes of his critics.

Jones has announced his re-entry into the UFC’s drug-testing pool just two weeks after retiring from MMA.

The 37-year-old legend posted on social media, “Just re-entered the testing pool, which lasted for about two weeks. Figured we’d keep everyone’s options open.”

Jones’ retirement on June 21 had initially closed the door on a long-awaited unification bout with Tom Aspinall, who was promoted to undisputed heavyweight champion by Dana White in his absence.

The timing of Jones’ decision aligns with rumors of a historic UFC event at the White House in 2026, proposed by former President Donald Trump to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day.

Jones teased the possibility, posting, “Fighting at the White House?” fueling theories that he could headline the card against Aspinall.

UFC fans have long accused Jones of avoiding Aspinall, but his sudden return to the testing pool suggests a different narrative. UFC CEO Dana White, on the other hand, had previously claimed a Jones-Aspinall fight was nearly finalized before Jones retired, leaving this fight back on the table if Jones returns to the promotion.

However, Jones’ career has been marred by controversies, including a recent allegation that he was guilty of a hit-and-run incident shortly after retiring.

Testing pool re-entry is a necessity for any UFC return, but Jones’ quick reversal raises questions about his motivations.

Whether it’s the allure of the White House event, unfinished business with Aspinall, or simply his inability to stay away from competition, Jones’ cryptic social media activity keeps the UFC fans guessing. 

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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