Jon Jones is recovering well from a serious hip injury and has teased a potential MMA comeback. The former two-division UFC champion has been coaching Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson for his highly anticipated UFC debut at UFC 329 next month in Las Vegas.
What happened?
Jones has had a checkered recent history with UFC CEO Dana White and the brass, publicly calling for his release earlier this year, a request that has not been granted.
Jones recently acknowledged additional health-related issues that impacted his decision to retire from MMA last summer. After undergoing stem cell treatment, on Joe Rogan's advice, Jones sounds open to the idea of fighting again.
Why it matters for Jon Jones
The former two-division titleholder is arguably the greatest fighter of all-time, and his potential comeback has sparked excitement among fans. Jones has been training with Steveson, who will make his UFC debut at UFC 329, and has been impressed with the young fighter's skills.
Jones tweeted, "Never say never, 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." Jones also mentioned that the stem cell treatment seems to be working.
What comes next?
If history produces foreseeable results, Jones could unretire again and fight for the heavyweight title over the next year. In the meantime, Jones' focus remains on his brightest pupil, who he predicts will eventually win a heavyweight championship.
Jones previously admitted he's dealt with severe hip arthritis in some of his recent training camps, including for his most recent victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. After a long, drawn-out negotiation to fight Tom Aspinall, Jones vacated the undisputed heavyweight title, and Aspinall was promoted from his interim role.
The UFC 329 event is scheduled to take place next month in Las Vegas, and fans are eagerly awaiting Steveson's debut. With Jones' potential comeback on the horizon, the UFC heavyweight division is about to get a lot more interesting.
Gable Steveson will look to prove the immense hype surrounding his fighting future correct when he makes his UFC debut at UFC 329. Jones is a significant reason behind Steveson's early career success and quick jump to the big leagues.
The former two-division champion has been open about his health issues, including severe hip arthritis, and has undergone stem cell treatment to aid in his recovery. The treatment seems to be working, and Jones is moving like he never left the octagon.
Jones' focus remains on coaching Steveson, who he believes will eventually win a heavyweight championship. The young fighter has a lot to prove, but with Jones in his corner, he's got a good chance of succeeding in the UFC.
The UFC 329 event will take place next month in Las Vegas, and fans will be watching closely to see how Steveson performs in his debut. With Jones' potential comeback on the horizon, the UFC heavyweight division is about to get a lot more interesting.