Jon Jones retired from MMA last June. Jones’ reasoning for ending his career is simply a matter of ducking would-be opponents. “Bones” would become known for avoiding high-profile adversaries.
Prior to retiring from MMA, a UFC Heavyweight Championship unification battle with then-UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall was being thrown around as the next step on Jon Jones’ championship journey. However, Jones retired from the sport on June 20 in a phone call to UFC CEO Dana White before the fight could take place.
Tom Aspinall was elevated to the permanent champion at heavyweight in the promotion due to Jon Jones retiring from MMA this past summer.