Jon Jones Stays Positive Despite Dana White’s Skepticism Over UFC White House Event Bout

UFC veteran Jon Jones shares his thoughts on CEO Dana White diminishing his chances to fight at the White House event.

Jon Jones Stays Positive Despite Dana White’s Skepticism Over UFC White House Event Bout

Jon Jones is hopeful to fight at White House event despite Dana White’s lack of interest (via X)

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Jon Jones stunned the MMA world by announcing his retirement after the UFC Baku event, after years of dominance, leaving fans questioning whether they had seen the last of the former heavyweight king. The decision felt final until news of an upcoming White House event in 2026 reignited Jones’ competitive fire. Known for his strong sense of patriotism, Jones has made it clear he’s eager to secure a spot, though UFC CEO Dana White appears reluctant to make it happen.

Once hailed by White as the UFC’s pound-for-pound greatest of all time, Jones now finds himself on the receiving end of dismissive remarks. At the UFC 318 post-fight presser, the head honcho remarked that he no longer trusts Jones for such an important billing owing to his last-minute withdrawal from the Tom Aspinall unification bout.

And once again at the UFC 319 post-fight press conference, White bluntly stated there’s “a one in a billion chance” of Jones ever fighting again. Unfazed, Jones fired back on X, showing confidence and determination while offering his perspective on the situation. Despite White’s stance, the former champion’s words made one thing clear: ‘Bones’ isn’t ready to close the book on his fighting career just yet.

Despite the odds, I’m still training and optimistic about the possibility of being part of the White House event. At the end of the day, Dana is the boss and it’s his call whether I compete that night or not. I do know Dana was really excited about the fight, and the door hasn’t been completely closed…. But I like my chances… after all, one in a billion is exactly what it took to end up as Jon ‘Bones’ Jones in the first place.

Jon Jones via X

Jon Jones has long admired US President Donald Trump, even giving a dance tribute at UFC 309 after defending his title against Stipe Miocic. Therefore, his eagerness to compete at the historic White House event comes as no surprise to fans and analysts. ‘Bones’ proudly stated it would be his honor, considering the fight as a patriotic service to the nation.

To prove his commitment to the White House event, Jones has officially re-entered the testing pool for eligibility clearance. Alongside him, former UFC double champion Conor McGregor has also joined the pool, showing strong excitement for a potential return. White, however, expressed greater confidence in McGregor’s participation, suggesting the Irish superstar is more likely than Jones to compete.

Newly crowned UFC middleweight champion doesn’t want Jon Jones’ return 

At UFC 319 last weekend, Khamzat Chimaev made history by capturing the middleweight championship and shocking the entire MMA community. ‘Borz’ showcased dominance, completely outclassing Dricus Du Plessis across five grueling rounds, ultimately securing victory through a decisive unanimous decision (50-44 on all judges’ scorecards). Chimaev’s relentless wrestling overwhelmed Du Plessis, with control time exceeding 21 minutes, marking a truly brutal and one-sided performance.

Jon Jones with Khamzat Chimaev
Jon Jones with Khamzat Chimaev (via X)

Several global icons, including Cristiano Ronaldo and McGregor, praised Chimaev’s dominant performance and congratulated him afterward. Jon Jones, a longtime admirer of Chimaev, watched UFC 319 live before posting his congratulatory message. The Chechen juggernaut has always looked up to Jones, previously sharing thoughts on Jones’ potential return before the fight.

Of course, he is the GOAT of MMA, if someone could be the king of MMA, he is the king of MMA, he is a crazy, crazy fighter and I like to watch his fights. If it’s going bad for him, somehow he finds a win. He’s a special guy, a special guy in MMA. He’s a legend, I’m happy to see him finished now undefeated, I hope he never comes back.

Khamzat Chimaev via JAXXON Podcast 

Following Jon Jones’ sudden retirement announcement, many fans harshly accused him of ducking and avoiding Tom Aspinall. Aspinall himself recently dismissed any potential opportunity to face Jones at the White House event, avoiding unnecessary drama and uncertainty. Adding to the conversation, other notable UFC superstars like Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev urged Jones to remain retired.

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