The UFC legend Jon Jones faces uncertainty over his next fight, despite planning a major comeback in 2026. After retiring as heavyweight champion last year, the Rochester native expressed interest in a headline fight, yet UFC president Dana White dismissed his return, calling him too unreliable for the Washington D.C. main event.
Jones has publicly sought a huge bout against Alex Pereira on June 14, but a recent health revelation sparked concerns about his ability to compete again.
severe arthritis won’t stop Jon Jones
The former light heavyweight and heavyweight champion has recently promoted Dirty Boxing alongside Mike Perry. Backstage at the promotion’s fifth event last Saturday, Jones spoke openly about his health. A video posted on TikTok captured Jones talking with fighter Joaquin Buckley, revealing he suffers from severe arthritis in his left hip and qualifies for a hip replacement. Many observers immediately questioned whether he could fight again.
Jones addressed the leak through TMZ, explaining that the recording happened without his consent and clarifying how the diagnosis affects his career. He acknowledged years of managing injuries quietly and said fighters often endure chronic pain while continuing their careers.
“I’m grateful for my battle scars,” Jones said. “If I could fight again, I would do it without hesitation. My career has always motivated me daily. Critics may question my pace in recent years, but I’ve applied lessons to business and evolution, not just the Octagon. The UFC knows the severity of my arthritis. If I risk it all one last time, the reward must be extraordinary, not just a payday. For me, that remains the White House. My career has been legendary, and I gave my all in the Octagon. I still train harder than most, push my limits, and stay strong, just with more careful preparation and stretching. God bless.”
UFC White House fight decision approaching
Dana White confirmed that matchmaking for the White House card will start after UFC 324 in Las Vegas. He expects the June 14 lineup to finalize by the end of February. Jones and his fans won’t wait long before knowing if he will make one final walk to the Octagon this year.
