Jon Jones declared that he has hung up his gloves and that fighter Jon Jones no longer exists. He stated he is now transitioning to being businessman Jon Jones. The announcement comes amid various other developments in the MMA world. Jones did not specify whether this is permanent retirement or provide details on his future business plans. His statement appeared in a roundup of recent MMA news alongside updates on several other fighters.
Jon Jones declared on April 11, 2026, that he has retired from professional fighting, stating that "fighter Jon Jones no longer exists" and that he is now transitioning into life as a businessman.
Jones, nicknamed "Bones," leaves the sport with a professional record of 28 wins and 1 loss. The 38-year-old American stands six-foot-four, or 193 centimeters, with an extraordinary 84-inch reach of 213 centimeters. Over his career he averaged 4.38 significant strikes landed per minute at a striking accuracy of 58 percent, while also posing a consistent threat on the mat with 1.89 takedowns per 15 minutes. Those numbers reflect a fighter who combined elite offensive output with rare physical tools across more than a decade at the top of the sport.
Jones did not clarify whether the retirement is permanent or outline any specifics about his planned business ventures. His announcement offered no timeline and no detail on what industries or projects he intends to pursue.
Why it matters
- Jones retires as one of the most accomplished fighters in MMA history, holding a 28-1-0 record that defines an era in the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.
- His departure leaves a significant void at heavyweight, with divisional rankings and title picture implications still to be sorted by the promotion.
- No official confirmation of future business activities was provided, leaving the full scope of this transition unclear.
- The lack of detail on whether the retirement is truly permanent means the situation may continue to develop.
