According to Dana White, Jon Jones` recent assertion that he was already retired several months ago comes as news to him.
Speaking after UFC 317, White addressed a series of tweets from Jones posted earlier in the week. Jones had claimed he informed the promotion of his retirement following his victory over Stipe Miocic but was repeatedly urged to reconsider. While Jones acknowledged discussing a potential bout against Tom Aspinall with the UFC, he vehemently denied that any agreement was ever reached, contrary to White`s previous statement that the fight was “done” before Jones abruptly decided to retire from the sport.
“I was told multiple times to simply reconsider and allow more time. That is the reality,” Jones stated on Twitter. He continued, “If the fight had been finalized, believe me, I would be competing. Yes, we did begin negotiations at one stage, but it was never concluded. My role then was to remain silent on the matter, which is precisely what I did. I was simply enjoying my life, which should have been evident.”
While not necessarily seeking a public argument about the accuracy of his initial remarks, White nonetheless disputed Jones` various tweets on the subject when questioned during the UFC 317 post-fight press conference.
Responding directly to Jones` claim of effectively retiring last November, White declared, “That is incorrect. I am presenting the truth. Choose who you wish to believe.”
Discrepancies between White and Jones regarding the details of their interactions are not unprecedented, though this instance may potentially be their final public disagreement.
For his part, White remained composed and did not show agitation while addressing Jones` statements. However, he maintained his position that the fight with Aspinall was confirmed and ready to go until the now-former heavyweight champion changed his mind.
Regardless of the differing accounts, the ultimate outcome is the same: Jones has relinquished the title and retired from competition, leaving Tom Aspinall as the undisputed heavyweight champion.
Regarding Aspinall`s future plans, White declined to discuss any potential matchups when asked about a possible fight against Ciryl Gane, which is currently viewed as the most likely next opponent.
Aspinall has publicly expressed his strongest interest in facing Gane next, although no official decisions have been made yet as the heavyweight division moves forward following the end of Jones` reign as champion.
