Jon Jones and Arthritis: Fighter Reveals UFC’s Plan of Action Over Potential Super Fight

UFC legend Jon Jones opens up on the reality of his arthritis issues after backstage video from DBX 5 got leaked.

Jon Jones and Arthritis: Fighter Reveals UFC’s Plan of Action Over Potential Super Fight

Jon Jones opens up on his Arthritis problems (via MMA Fighting)

Jon Jones is one of the most popular and decorated UFC fighters, whose presence continues to draw massive attention worldwide. While his career has been marred by controversy, fans remain eager to see him compete at the highest level. Recently, he clarified how severe arthritis is affecting his training, performance, and overall ability to compete, highlighting the physical toll of a demanding MMA career.

Jones is currently part of a Russian TUF‑style reality TV show, ALF Reality, filmed in Thailand with his longtime rival, Daniel Cormier. The show has both Jones and Cormier serving as head coaches of separate teams, each responsible for training their fighters. The teams compete against each other in challenges and bouts, with each coach guiding strategy, preparation, and training throughout the series.

During the show, there was a discussion about a potential wrestling match between Jones and Cormier, proposed by Jones himself. However, recent footage from the Dirty Boxing 5 event showed Jones backstage explaining that his arthritis prevents him from competing in such a match. This led Jones to publish a lengthy post clarifying his current health and how it limits his competitive options.

Looks like a private conversation I had at DBX 5 in Houston made its way out into the wild. It happens. Like most fighters, we deal with injuries quietly sometimes and like in my case, for years. ike most fighters, we deal with injuries quietly sometimes and like in my case, for years. A lot of us walk around limping most days, paying the ultimate price for our health. If you’re wondering whether it’s true, it is. I’m grateful for all my battle scars, and if I could do it all over again, I absolutely would without hesitation.

Jon Jones via TMZ Sports

Jones retired from the UFC after prolonged inactivity, which strained his relationship with CEO Dana White and raised questions about his future. His recent arthritis revelation provides context for the physical challenges he faced late in his career. The condition may have limited his performance in high-level bouts. The former two division champion clarified that the UFC was aware of his arthritis before his retirement.

The UFC knows the extent of my arthritis. They also know that if I were to put it all on the line one last time and endure that level of pain, the reward would have to be something special and something more than a fat payday. For me, that was and is still the White House. Whether that fight happens or not, my career has been one for the ages and nothing short of legendary. I left a big part of myself in that Octagon, and I’m grateful for every bit of it.

Jon Jones via TMZ Sports

Jones has been vocal about securing a spot on the UFC White House event and briefly came out of retirement for it. White has said he cannot trust ‘Bones’ for the event, labeling him undependable. This stems from Jones’ prolonged reign as UFC heavyweight champion, during which he did not fight interim champion Tom Aspinall. He eventually vacated the belt with only one defense in two years as champion.

At 38 years old, Jon Jones remains one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. While he continues to advocate for a spot on the UFC White House event, he must also consider his future. Having competed at the highest level for nearly two decades, his health is a key factor in his next steps. The Albuquerque native’s career highlights his legacy and underscores the importance of long term healthcare in MMA.

Jon Jones diminishes plans for a superfight against Alex Pereira

Jon Jones has long been a magnet for superfights, drawing attention whenever a high-profile matchup is proposed. The former two-division champion thrives on challenging himself with new opportunities. This mindset was evident in his pursuit of a fight with Alex Pereira, a bout both fighters had agreed to. Jones and Pereira were clear about their ambitions and mutual interest in fighting eachother since a longtime.

Alex Pereira and Jon Jones potential mega fight
Alex Pereira and Jon Jones potential mega fight (via MMA Fighting)

Pereira has quickly risen to two-divisional championship status, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous fighters in the UFC. His achievements attracted Jon Jones, who called him out for a fight at the UFC White House event. Initially eager, Jones viewed it as a major challenge, but his stance has shifted recently, leaving questions about whether the bout will happen.

I don’t really know what’s going to happen. I take it one day at a time, some things are just out of my control. I feel blessed whether I fight again or not, I feel wonderful.

Jon Jones via The SchmoMMA

The potential fight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated matchups in MMA. Analysts and commentators, including Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier, have emphasized the fight’s significance for the sport. Beyond its impact on MMA, the bout would be a defining moment for both Pereira and Jones’ individual careers.

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