Jon Jones, the former undisputed UFC heavyweight champion, recently announced his retirement, ending years of dominance in the 265-pound division. His decision sparked mixed reactions across the MMA community, but former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov expressed strong support for Jones’ retirement, acknowledging his immense impact on the sport and stating that Jones has nothing left to prove in MMA.
Support from a UFC Legend Despite Past Rivalry
Although Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones were never close friends and even maintained differing views throughout their careers, Khabib congratulated Jones on his decision to retire. Jones’ long tenure in the light heavyweight division attracted criticism for his infrequent appearances and delays in unifying the title. Meanwhile, Khabib, who retired undefeated at 29-0 after defending the lightweight belt, recognized Jones’ overall contribution to MMA despite their lack of personal friendship.
The former Eagle noted via Instagram,
“My congratulations, legend. Even [though] we were not friends, but you are the best who ever do it in UFC history and you inspire millions of people around the world. You have nothing more to prove in this sport.”
—Khabib Nurmagomedov
Khabib stepped away from competition after submitting Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, a victory that earned him accolades such as Best Submission ESPY and Best Fighter honors. His decision to retire was influenced in part by the passing of his father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, an esteemed Soviet wrestling instructor. Now, Khabib serves as a coach for fighters like Islam Makhachev and Belal Muhammad, remaining a strong figure in the MMA community.
Jon Jones’ Career and Controversies Behind His Retirement
Jon Jones’ MMA career is widely regarded as one of the greatest in UFC history. Known as a consensus GOAT (Greatest of All Time) and a dominant light heavyweight fighter, Jones held the unofficial Pound-for-Pound top spot for a significant period. His reign, however, was interrupted by extended periods of inactivity, partly caused by lengthy contractual disputes related to his transition to heavyweight.
Jones’ frequent delays in defending the title and demands for substantial pay-per-view compensation became points of criticism among fans and analysts alike. This led some to question the legitimacy of his legacy despite his undeniable skill. His spotty record includes only one official loss by disqualification in 2009 against Matt Hamill for illegal 12-6 elbows, an illegal technique at the time, which has since been legalized by the Association of Boxing Commissions.
Many wondered whether Jones would make a comeback, especially to challenge the rising heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who holds an impressive record with multiple first-round knockouts and minimal time spent on the ground. His dominance set the stage for a potential high-profile fight against Jones, which would have been a defining test for both athletes.
Demetrious Johnson Reacts to Jones’ Retirement Decision
Former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson expressed confusion about Jon Jones’ retirement choice, particularly given Jones’ opportunity to face Tom Aspinall. Johnson suggested that Jones initially showed openness to the fight after defeating Stipe Miocic but believes that financial negotiations and other personal matters may have influenced Jones’ ultimate decision to step away.
On his “MIGHTY” podcast, Johnson said,
“Deep down inside, I think Jon Jones after he beat Stipe Miocic, I think he was totally down to fight Tom Aspinall, and I think Jones asked the UFC for $30m thinking the UFC was not going to give that to him, …Maybe this whole night bender and mushrooms with this chick changed his whole mindset… But this is the thing we will never know… We’ll never hear from Jones’ mouth on why he didn’t take the Tom fight.”
—Demetrious Johnson
Johnson speculated that Jones’ hesitation might have been due to concerns about tarnishing his legacy. Despite a largely undefeated record, Jones’ career has been clouded by multiple controversies, including a positive test for a banned substance and legal problems. The prospect of risky competition like Aspinall could have been seen as a threat to Jones’ established standing in the sport.
Industry Speculation on Jones’ Future Involvement in MMA
Jones’ former rival and Team AKA teammate Daniel Cormier weighed in on the possibility of Jones returning to competition. Although Cormier acknowledged Jones’ shaken legacy due to his legal and contractual hurdles, he hinted that Jones might still return if the right opportunity arises, such as a title change involving Aspinall. However, Jones’ current stance on retirement and his disinterest in fighting Aspinall cause divide opinions among insiders.
UFC President Dana White further complicated the narrative by indicating that financial or legal issues were unlikely the primary reasons for Jones’ retirement. According to White, negotiations and internal matters were settled before Jones’ unexpected exit, suggesting other personal factors may have influenced the decision.
Impact of Jones’ Retirement on UFC’s Heavyweight Division
With Jon Jones stepping away, Tom Aspinall has been left as the definitive heavyweight champion, finally resolving one of the longest-standing title uncertainties in the UFC’s history. Aspinall’s consecutive wins, including a notable first-round TKO over Curtis Blaydes, have solidified his position atop the division and excited fans eager for fresh matchups.
Jones’ retirement also closes a chapter in the UFC where light heavyweight division dominance coincided with reluctance to enter the heavyweight class fully. This opens the door for the UFC’s next generation of fighters to establish themselves without Jones’ shadow looming over the heavyweight scene.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Legacy and Continued Influence in MMA
Though no longer competing, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s influence remains substantial. His coaching role with Islam Makhachev, who continues to climb through the lightweight ranks, and mentoring of other fighters like Belal Muhammad, underscore his ongoing contribution to the sport. Khabib’s backing of Jones’ retirement reinforces the respect both men hold for each other’s careers despite their past differences.
His message that Jones “has nothing more to prove” encapsulates a shared understanding among MMA veterans: once a fighter reaches the pinnacle, stepping away can be a sign of completion rather than defeat. Khabib’s respect, despite their rivalry, highlights the deep appreciation for legacy and impact within combat sports.