Jon Jones Praises Conor McGregor’s Positive Attitude After Injury Setback at UFC 329

UFC legend Jon Jones backs Conor McGregor's faith and willingness to return after disappointing injury at UFC 329.

Jon Jones Praises Conor McGregor’s Positive Attitude After Injury Setback at UFC 329

Jon Jones praises Conor McGregor (via X, Sky Sports)

Jon Jones has spent years at the top of MMA while establishing himself as one of the sport’s greatest fighters. Despite his own legendary achievements, he has consistently maintained respect for Irish superstar Conor McGregor throughout their careers. McGregor’s UFC 329 return ended in an unfortunate first-round injury, and Jones has now shown his support for him after the disappointing event.

At UFC 329, McGregor ended his five-year absence from the Octagon when he faced former BMF and featherweight champion Max Holloway in the main event. McGregor’s return lasted only 69 seconds after he suffered a knee injury in the opening moments of the fight. The injury forced referee Mike Beltran to stop the contest, handing Holloway a first-round TKO victory in their welterweight rematch.

Following the loss, McGregor appeared disappointed after his return ended early against Holloway. He later addressed the setback on social media, revealing his intention to return for the final fight of his UFC contract. McGregor also spoke about his belief in God and faith helping him move forward. Jones resonated with those messages and wished the Irish superstar the best for his future.

Conor has been publicly leaning on Christ. I feel as if when you are trying to resist the world and walk that narrow path, I feel like one of the steps is God asking you, ‘How bad do you want it?’ When you publicly talk about your love for God, and then you turn around and get injured, it’d be really easy to go back to the bar and have this rage and this animosity – and so far, what I’m seeing from Conor is he’s still praising God.

Jon Jones via Ring Magazine

McGregor later revealed that he would require surgery and rehabilitation following his injury against Holloway. He also stated his desire to complete the final fight of his UFC contract despite the setback. McGregor made it clear that he does not want to retire despite doubts surrounding his health and future.

Jones has spoken about his admiration for McGregor and has remained vocal about his support for the Irishman. The Albuquerque native had also expressed excitement about McGregor’s return before UFC 329 and highlighted how good it was to see McGregor back competing after his extended absence.

However, Jones’ longtime rival and fellow UFC legend, Daniel Cormier, believes McGregor could retire following the disappointing outcome against Holloway. Cormier addressed the former two divisional champions’ injury setback and suggested the result could impact the Irishman’s future in the sport.

Holloway immediately called for a rematch after his victory over McGregor at UFC 329, expressing interest in running the fight back. However, UFC CEO Dana White believed the trilogy bout would likely not materialize, as the promotion could pursue a different direction for McGregor’s next fight and future.

Jones and Conor McGregor have developed a notable friendship over the years, often sharing playful banter and interactions on social media. Their exchanges have shown mutual respect between the two UFC stars, which played a role in Jon Jones’s support for ‘The Notorious One’ after his UFC 329 setback.

RELATED
Conor McGregor Issues First Statement After UFC 329 Bitter Ending and Denies Any Prior Injuries

Jon Jones remains positive about potentially returning to the UFC

Jon Jones officially retired from the UFC in June 2025 after vacating the heavyweight championship. However, the UFC legend quickly changed his stance following the announcement of the UFC White House event. Jones became open to a return and was prepared to step back inside the Octagon.

However, CEO Dana White maintained a clear stance regarding Jones’ status from the beginning. White believed Jones was not dependable enough for such a major event because of his past issues. The UFC boss stated he could not rely on Jones for the White House card and its importance.

Jon Jones in his last UFC outing
Jon Jones in his last UFC outing (via X)

Jones later called out the UFC while discussing his potential return and addressed the challenges he has faced. The former champion revealed he has been dealing with arthritis during his time away. Jones also claimed he was in active talks with the promotion, despite White stating he was never considered.

Jones returned to the UFC at UFC 329, but not as an active competitor inside the Octagon. The veteran served in a coaching role by cornering Gable Steveson during his UFC debut. Steveson secured a first-round knockout victory over Elisha Ellison. Interestingly, Jones has now revealed his desire to return.

I’m still in the UFC’s drug testing pool. If I get that calling, maybe from the higher powers, then I’m gonna have to answer that call.

Jon Jones via Ring Magazine

Jon Jones’ potential return remains uncertain as he continues dealing with physical issues from his long career. His longtime coach, Greg Jackson, has expressed concerns about him competing again. Despite those challenges, ‘Bones’ has continued to leave the door open for a UFC comeback

Also Read: