Jon Jones Teases UFC Return While Promoting Dirty Boxing Championship in Miami

The MMA world is buzzing as Jon “Bones” Jones made an appearance in Miami this weekend. While he was officially there to help promote Dirty Boxing Championship 2, it didn’t take long before the conversation shifted to what everyone really wants to know: When is the UFC’s most dominant champion coming back to the octagon?

I was lucky enough to catch some of the action, and let me tell you, the energy in Miami was electric with Jones in attendance.

Jones Plays Coy About UFC Heavyweight Return

Jones, who hasn’t competed since his dominant heavyweight debut against Ciryl Gane in March 2023, was immediately peppered with questions about his fighting future. In classic “Bones” fashion, he managed to keep fans guessing while dropping just enough hints to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.

“I’m feeling good, training hard, and just waiting for the right opportunity,” Jones told reporters with his trademark smirk. “The heavyweight division is about to be put on notice – again.”

What struck me most was how comfortable Jones looked in his role as both promoter and the sport’s biggest star. The man knows how to command a room.

Stipe Miocic Fight Still on the Table?

For months, the MMA community has been waiting for confirmation of a showdown between Jones and former heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic. This potential superfight was initially rumored for November 2023 before Jones suffered an injury that put the matchup on ice.

When pressed about Miocic specifically, Jones offered:

“Stipe’s a legend. That fight makes sense for both of us. We’re talking with the UFC, and when the time is right, we’ll make it official. But I’m not just focused on one name – I’m here to cement my legacy as the greatest to ever do it.”

The Dirty Boxing Connection

While Jones’ UFC future dominated questions, his presence at the Dirty Boxing Championship wasn’t just a random appearance. The promotion, which features a hybrid ruleset that emphasizes clinch fighting, aligns perfectly with one of Jones’ greatest strengths as a fighter.

“What they’re doing here is special,” Jones explained. “The dirty boxing aspect of MMA has always been my playground inside the UFC. These guys are putting that element front and center, and I’m excited to see how the sport evolves.”

Jones vs. Aspinall: The Fight Fans Want?

The elephant in the room remains interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who has been campaigning hard for a shot at Jones. When Aspinall’s name came up, Jones’ demeanor noticeably shifted.

“Aspinall’s doing his thing, I respect that. He’s a talented kid. But I’ve been in this game longer than he’s been an adult. The UFC and I have plans, and we’ll see if he fits into them.”

This response has already sent social media into a frenzy, with fans debating whether Jones is avoiding the dangerous Brit or simply playing the business side of the sport like the veteran he is.

Timeline for Return

For those hoping for an exact date for Jones’ return, the champion remained frustratingly vague. However, he did offer this tidbit:

“Summer would be nice. The body feels good, the mind is right. I’ve got a few things to handle outside the cage, but when that contract comes with the right name and the right numbers, I’ll be ready.”

What This Means for the Heavyweight Division

Jones’ presence looms large over a heavyweight division that’s currently in limbo. With an interim champion in Aspinall, former champions like Miocic waiting in the wings, and contenders like Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich all jockeying for position, Jones’ decision will create a ripple effect throughout the entire weight class.

One thing’s certain – when Jon Jones does return, it will be the biggest heavyweight fight the UFC can make in 2024.

What’s Your Take?

Who do you think Jon Jones should face in his return to the octagon? Is Stipe Miocic the right opponent, or should Jones face the younger, more explosive threat in Tom Aspinall? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

I’ll be keeping a close eye on Jones’ movements in Miami throughout the weekend and will update with any breaking news about his UFC return.

Source: Vox