Chael Sonnen is impressed with what Jon Jones has become since leaving the cage.
Jones retired in 2025 and gave up the UFC heavyweight title, then briefly came back before retiring again in April. He has since moved into coaching, working in the corner of heavyweight prospect Gable Steveson.
Sonnen, who lost to Jones by first-round TKO at UFC 159 in 2013, praised his former rival’s work as a coach in an interview with MMA Junkie.
As I’ve watched him grow, I’ve been very impressed with him as a coach. I caught a seminar of his, and he was just fantastic. His ability to relay information.
Jon Jones’ post-career, in many ways, is more responsible.
Steveson suffered his first UFC loss at UFC 331 in Los Angeles on September 19, when Sean Sharaf knocked him out in 12 seconds. Jones escorted Steveson out of the Octagon before Sharaf had his hand raised, which drew backlash.
Jones later took responsibility on X, saying it was his decision to take Steveson straight to the back. He said his first instinct was to make sure his friend was OK.
Sonnen said Jones deserves credit for owning that call.
In many ways, that very tweet is more manly, more macho. He’s stepping in front of things and taking the heat. He’s very sensitive. Jon Jones gets his feelings hurt on social media.
He knew this was going to blow up in his face. But he also knew it was the right thing to do for his guy. I really respected it.
Jones held the UFC heavyweight title after beating Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in 2023. He made one defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in 2024.
