Jon Jones Retires, Tom Aspinall Named UFC Heavyweight Champion

Jon Jones has officially retired from the UFC, ending months of speculation and a prolonged standoff with interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. UFC President Dana White confirmed the retirement at the UFC Baku post-fight press conference, immediately crowning Aspinall as the undisputed heavyweight champion. The much-anticipated unification fight between Jones and Aspinall was reportedly finalized but fell through after Jones decided to retire, amid ongoing legal troubles including a misdemeanor charge related to a February accident. Aspinall responded by urging fans to focus on moving the heavyweight division forward now that he holds the undisputed title. Dana White faced criticism for previously guaranteeing the Jones-Aspinall fight would happen, with some fans calling for his resignation following the failed promise. Despite the controversy, White expressed regret over the lost time for Aspinall but emphasized the legendary career of Jones, who retires as one of MMA’s greatest fighters.