Jon Jones Open to UFC Return, Says He's 'Moving Like I Never Left'

Jon Jones is not ruling out a return to the octagon. The former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion has been part of Gable Steveson’s camp for his UFC debut on July 11, when Steveson faces off with Elisha Ellison at UFC 329 in Las Vegas. Jones said that participating in the camp has kept him in great shape. Away from the UFC since late 2024, Jones credits stem cells treatment for his recovery. "Never say never," Jones wrote on social media when asked about fighting again. "Right now we are finishing up Gable‘s training camp. He’s looking extraordinary. I’ve been his main training partner, and I’m moving like I never left. Stem cells must be working."

Jones revealed earlier this year he had “severe arthritis” and “already qualify for a hip replacement” after decades of training in wrestling and MMA. He hasn’t fought since a third-round knockout over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, and said “I went to bed in so much pain” during that camp. "Bones", who turns 39 in July and holds a pro record of 28-1 with one no-contest, had campaigned for a heavyweight clash with Alex Pereira at the UFC White House card earlier this month. However, the Brazilian went on to face and lose to Ciryl Gane instead.