Jon Jones, former UFC double champion and widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists in history, has addressed recent reports surrounding his $30 million UFC comeback offer. The heavyweight contender last competed in November 2024, and his future in the Octagon remains uncertain amid recovering from career injuries and speculating over a potential retirement fight.
Jones Shares Recovery Update Following Stem Cell Treatment
Jones recently shared a video from a scenic location in California, appearing alongside his family while reflecting on his physical condition. He revealed undergoing a cycle of stem cell therapy to treat injuries accumulated over his career. This video sparked conversations among fans about whether Jones was preparing for a return or easing into retirement.
He wrote,
“I usually get back to work. Fight the toughest competition the world has to offer. This time, I took a little bit of a step back. I got some stem cells done, some things really needed to be addressed. I wanted to thank the UFC for supporting that. Life is good, your boy is healing. Becoming stronger so that I can finish my old man chapter like a real badass. I think a lot of great things are to come, but all great things take time. I’m patient, I’m a man on a mission, a man with a plan.”
—Jon Jones via X
Details on the $30 Million UFC Comeback Offer and Fight Speculation
Speculation intensified earlier in 2025 after MMA journalist Ariel Helwani reported that Jones requested a staggering $30 million fight purse to return and face heavyweight contender Tom Aspinall. While the figure was reportedly agreed upon, Jones later declined the bout, surprising the MMA community. The exact reasons for withdrawing have not been confirmed, but his recent acknowledgment of recovery hints at preparing for one final fight rather than an immediate comeback.
Jones’s last UFC appearance was a dominant performance at UFC 309 in November 2024, where he successfully defended his heavyweight title by knocking out Stipe Miocic with a spinning back kick. Following that bout, fans eagerly anticipated a unification match against then-interim champion Aspinall, who was keen to unify the belts. However, Jones chose to announce his retirement and relinquished his title, adding uncertainty to the heavyweight division’s future.
Despite his retirement announcement, Jones re-entered the UFC testing pool, generating mixed emotions among fans who are simultaneously excited and frustrated about his status. Some rumors suggested Jones might participate in the controversial UFC White House event representing the United States, but his involvement remains unconfirmed.
Top Fighters React to Jones Turning Down the $30 Million Offer
The potential $30 million payday represented one of the largest fight purses in UFC history, drawing attention and opinions from prominent fighters. Former champions Israel Adesanya and Demetrious Johnson shared their thoughts on the situation during an appearance on the FREESTYLEBENDER YouTube channel, hosted by Adesanya.
The pair was candid when asked if they would fight for such a considerable sum despite the risks involved. Both strong competitors agreed emphatically:
F**K YEAH! I would get my a** kicked for $30 million. —Demetrious Johnson and Israel Adesanya via FREESTYLEBENDER
“But if you were in Jon Jones’ position would you fight Tom Aspinall for $30M ?” ; “F*CK YEAH!” – both DJ and Izzy replied simultaneously. “Bro even if I wasn’t a fighter I’d get my ass kicked for $30M.” – Izzy added —Demetrious Johnson and Israel Adesanya via FREESTYLEBENDER
While appreciating the financial gain, both fighters also expressed that Jones should have retired on a high note after defeating Miocic, acknowledging his dominant career achievements. Their views reflect a broader consensus in the MMA community, where financial incentives often outweigh risks, especially for established champions like Jones.
Ongoing Uncertainty Surrounding the Future of ‘Bones’ in UFC
Jon Jones‘s status remains one of the most debated topics in MMA as fans and experts weigh the possibility of his return against his recent retirement announcement and ongoing rehabilitation. His fight against Aspinall, which promised to unify heavyweight titles, was highly anticipated, but its cancellation left a void in the division.
Jones’s recovery and reflections on his career underscore the physical and mental toll the sport takes, especially on athletes at the pinnacle of competition. The stem cell therapy and his commitment to healing suggest he might aim for a meaningful retirement fight rather than rushing back into active competition.
The significance of Jones’s decisions extends beyond just one fight or one paycheck. His presence impacts the heavyweight division’s dynamics and leaves unanswered questions about who will rise to prominence in his absence. Fans remain eager for clearer direction, watching closely for any signs that ‘Bones‘ will return to the Octagon or officially close this chapter of his legendary career.