Jon Jones Having Health Concerns Makes RAF Wrestling Match Against Daniel Cormier Unlikely

Jon Jones gives worrying update regarding hip replacement when asked about potential wrestling match against Daniel Cormier.

Jon Jones Having Health Concerns Makes RAF Wrestling Match Against Daniel Cormier Unlikely

Jon Jones casts shadow on Daniel Cormier RAF match (via Yahoo, MTN Sports)

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UFC legend Jon Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in mixed martial arts. There has been ongoing speculation about whether he will ever return to the Octagon after retirement. Recently, he has participated in the ALF reality show alongside former rival Daniel Cormier, which led many to anticipate a wrestling match under the RAF banner. However, Jones has now dismissed that possibility.

Jones has been out of competition since his retirement following a victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. Since that win, there has been widespread doubt about whether he will return to active fighting. He has expressed particular interest in participating in the UFC White House event, generating speculation about a comeback. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding his return to the Octagon.

However, Jones is currently involved in a TUF-style Russian reality show, ALF Reality, where he and Cormier serve as head coaches for opposing teams, guiding and training their fighters throughout the competition. During a recent interaction, Jones was asked about a potential bout against DC under the RAF banner. He quickly dismissed the idea, citing his ongoing health concerns as the reason he would not compete.

I have severe arthritis, and most people don’t know that. My left hip is covered in arthritis. I actually already qualify for a hip replacement. My last training camp. Man, I went to bed in so much pain. I have a three-year-old baby boy, and I want to use what I’ve got left of my hips to play with him.

Jon Jones via Instagram

Cormier and Jones have faced each other twice in the past, forming one of MMA’s most notable rivalries. Their history in the Octagon has spanned years of competition and intense matchups. While both are now officially retired from professional MMA, the idea of a wrestling match between them was initially suggested by Jones himself. He had expressed interest in securing a third victory over Cormier.

Both Jones and Cormier have strong wrestling backgrounds that shaped their MMA careers. ‘Bones’ was a highly ranked high school and collegiate wrestler before turning to professional MMA. Cormier achieved success as an Olympic-level freestyle wrestler and held multiple national titles in the U.S. Their wrestling pedigree has been central to their fighting style and achievements throughout their careers.

Jon Jones’ recent revelation about his arthritis underscores the wider reasons he was unable to face Tom Aspinall, a matchup that had generated controversy. At 38, the condition highlights the physical toll of his long MMA career. The diagnosis and potential hip replacement may affect his ability to return to competition. It also marks a pivotal moment as he transitions into the next stage of life beyond fighting.

Dana White reacts to Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier participating in ALF Reality

UFC CEO Dana White has consistently supported Jon Jones throughout his career, keeping him among the organization’s top figures. He has frequently placed Jones at the top of his GOAT rankings, highlighting his accomplishments inside the Octagon. Despite Jones’ controversial moments outside the cage, White has repeatedly defended his status as one of the sport’s greatest fighters.

Dana White talks about Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier's ALF Reality show
Dana White talks about Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier’s ALF Reality show (via X, Instagram)

However, in recent times, White’s trust in Jones has declined due to his unpredictability as a heavyweight champion. This unreliability contributed to Jones being left out of the planned UFC White House event. The situation highlighted ongoing concerns about his readiness for high-profile bouts. White reportedly did not seem pleased when informed that Jones and Daniel Cormier would take part in the Russian TUF-style show.

The situation underscores the broader stakes for Jon Jones’ legacy and reputation in MMA. While his in-cage achievements remain unparalleled, his recent choices and absences continue to fuel debate over his reliability. How he manages his career and public engagements going forward will likely shape perceptions of his standing among MMA’s all-time greats.

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