It is no secret that the profession of Jon Jones is winding down, however the UFC legend’s current retirement bombshell may very well be a significant blow for the corporate.
The 37-year-old, who hasn’t fought contained in the octagon since capturing the heavyweight title in March of final 12 months, is making ready for a return in opposition to Stipe Miocic.
Jones has been chasing what many have described as a legacy battle for the champ, with Miocic held in astonishingly excessive regard by these throughout the MMA world.
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His prolonged absence locations the UFC in a tough predicament as English sensation Tom Aspinall stakes his declare for the highest prize, successful two straight fights for the interim title however has been left to attend idly by for Jones to tackle Miocic.
The newest growth will solely additional cloud the highest of the heavyweight division, with Jones claiming final weekend that UFC 309 in New York often is the finish of his profession.
“It should be the final time … greater than seemingly,” he mentioned.
When quizzed about Jones’ future on Wednesday, White failed to provide a transparent reply.
“You have to determine what is going on to occur on this battle,” he mentioned.
“See how this battle performs out after which we’ll go from there.”
The information will little question be irritating for Aspinall, who has carved out fairly the resume over the previous 12 months however continues to be caught in limbo.
Jones has been one of many prime attracts in UFC historical past and given the shortage of star energy on the promotion’s disposal, the timing of his retirement information is a tricky capsule to swallow.
Conor McGregor is ready for a name, Amanda Nunes is retired, Sean O’Malley was simply dethroned as champ and Israel Adesanya has misplaced three out of his previous 4 bouts.
So, at a time the place the UFC may definitely do with Jones being lively and taking up the rising star in Aspinall or a highly-anticipated conflict with Alex Pereira, the American famous person already has one foot out of the cage.
Proper now, it is a matter of hoping Jones and Miocic get into the cage with out challenge in November for a showdown between two all-time greats.
The pair have been meant to sq. off final 12 months, however harm drama pressured a postponement earlier than officers lastly confirmed the date final weekend at UFC 306 in Las Vegas.
From there, will probably be as much as White’s golden youngster to resolve whether or not he needs to stay round and threat his legacy in opposition to the damaging Aspinall or experience off into the sundown.