Jon Jones says he is ready and willing to fight for the UFC despite recent retirement speculation. The former two-weight champion announced his retirement in June, canceling what Dana White considered an agreed fight with heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. Days later, Jones hinted at a return when the UFC announced plans for a White House show in 2026.
However, Dana White has ruled out Jones competing at the event, jokingly offering “a billion-to-one” odds on his participation.
Jones clarified his status at the MTV VMAs, telling Denise White: “I am not retired. I’m actively training 5 days a week, and I’m in the UFC’s drug testing pool.” Asked about fighting at the White House, he added: “I don’t really know. It’s kind of out of my control. I’m training for the event. I’ll be ready… That’s my goal. That’s my intention, but ultimately it’s up to the boss.”
Meanwhile, Conor McGregor has expressed interest in headlining the White House card. The event, initially planned for July 4, 2026, is now scheduled for June, featuring ceremonial weigh-ins at the Lincoln Memorial, in-house warm-ups, fireworks, and light shows. McGregor tweeted “MCGREGOR’S RETURN!” following the announcement, positioning him as the current frontrunner for the historic UFC show.
