UFC Legend Jon Jones Retires, Tom Aspinall Becomes Heavyweight Champion

UFC legend and heavyweight champion Jon Jones has retired from the sport, according to president and CEO Dana White.

The news, which White announced during a press conference in Azerbaijan on Saturday night, means that Britain's Tom Aspinall, the interim belt holder, has been upgraded to full champion.

“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,” said White. “Jon Jones is officially retired. Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.

“Do I regret the time that I gave [Jones to decide]? Listen, if you look at what he's accomplished in the sport, no.”

Jones, 37, claimed the heavyweight title in March 2023 and defended against Stipe Miocic last November - despite Aspinall, the rising star of the division, claiming the interim belt the year before.

Aspinall, 32, has campaigned long and hard for a fight with Jones, but the American refused to entertain the idea.

Jones is widely regarded as one of the best mixed martial artists of all time, but infuriated fans by claiming that fighting Aspinall would not add to his legacy.

Aspinall reacted via his social media, saying: “For you fans, it's time to get this heavyweight division going. An active undisputed champion.”

- The National, MSN