The UFC heavyweight division has gained much-needed clarity as Jon Jones has officially retired, according to Dana White. The decision, announced in June 2025, closes a chapter of uncertainty that began after Jones defeated Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 last November.
Jones’ retirement follows months of speculation, with the former champion refusing to face interim titleholder Tom Aspinall, despite pressure from fans and the MMA community. Calls for Jones to unify the heavyweight titles were met with resistance, culminating in widespread frustration and a petition urging the UFC to strip Jones of the belt.
Dana White Confirms Retirement and Elevates Aspinall to Undisputed Champion
At a press conference following the UFC’s inaugural event in Baku, UFC President Dana White revealed that Jon Jones contacted him to formally announce his retirement from the sport. White confirmed that Jones has relinquished the UFC heavyweight title, paving the way for Tom Aspinall to be recognized as the undisputed champion.
White stated,
“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,”
officially confirming Jones’ departure from active competition. Adding to the announcement, he declared,
“Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.”
This decision marks a turning point in the heavyweight division, ending a period marked by tension and unanswered questions regarding the title’s status.
Tom Aspinall’s Rise to the Top of the Heavyweight Division
Tom Aspinall’s reign as the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion begins with vindication after holding the interim title for 19 months. He captured the interim belt by knocking out Sergei Pavlovich in the first round back in November 2023.
During Jon Jones’ hesitation to face him, Aspinall successfully defended the interim title, notably securing a victory over Curtis Blaydes, avenging a previous injury that forced their scheduled main event in London to end prematurely.
As the new champion, Aspinall is expected to face top contenders such as Ciryl Gane, Jailton Almeida, or Alexander Volkov in upcoming title defenses, a prospect that has excited fans and analysts alike.
Impact of the Championship Change on the UFC Heavyweight Division
Jon Jones’ retirement and Tom Aspinall’s elevation signify a major shift in the UFC heavyweight division hierarchy. With Jones stepping away, Aspinall now carries the responsibility of defending the title against a competitive field of challengers, ensuring the heavyweight division remains one of the sport’s most compelling weight classes.
This transition also settles ongoing debates among fans, while setting the stage for new rivalries and championship bouts in the months ahead.