Jon Jones told cameras on 10 Jul 2026 that working with Olympic gold‑medalist Gable Steveson makes him miss fighting, prompting the two‑weight champion to rethink his retirement as they prep for Steveson’s UFC 329 debut.
What happened?
During UFC Embedded’s media day on 10 Jul 2026, Jones and Steveson were filmed sparring and drilling at the UFC Performance Institute. Jones, who announced his retirement last summer, said the session reminded him of why he loved the sport. He praised Steveson’s work ethic and noted the wrestler’s upcoming prelim bout against Ellisha Ellison at UFC 329, a card headlined by Conor McGregor’s return.
Why it matters for Jon Jones
Jones has flirted with a comeback since stepping away, even hinting at a possible fight on Jake Paul’s MVP MMA platform against Francis Ngannou. Seeing Steveson transition from wrestling to MMA appears to have reignited his competitive fire. “It feels so good to be back here,” Jones said, adding that the experience makes him miss the game tremendously. His comments suggest the champion is weighing a return not just for personal glory but to guide his protégé through a five‑round fight mindset.
How the partnership shapes Steveson’s debut
Jones is not merely a mentor; he’s actively conditioning Steveson for the rigors of UFC competition. He told the crew he’s teaching the wrestler to pace a five‑round bout despite Steveson never having set foot in the octagon. The former champion also hinted at a possible future showdown, noting Steveson’s openness to fighting teammate Josh Hokit and even a potential move down to 205 lb. Jones’s involvement gives Steveson credibility and a strategic edge as he steps onto the UFC stage for the first time.
What comes next?
Steveson’s fight at UFC 329 is set for 29 Jul 2026, with Jones expected to remain on the corner. If the bout goes well, the partnership could evolve into a longer‑term coaching relationship, possibly influencing Jones’s own decision on a return. The champion’s public musings about leaving his contract to fight on MVP MMA keep speculation alive, and his comments on media day have already sparked fan debate across social platforms.
How fans are reacting
Social media lit up after the video release, with many fans expressing excitement over the prospect of Jones stepping back into the cage. Others praised Jones for giving back to the sport by nurturing a promising talent like Steveson. The blend of mentorship and personal reflection adds a fresh narrative to the lead‑up of UFC 329, making the event a focal point for both veteran and newcomer storylines.