Jon Jones says he is “moving like he never left” after serving as Gable Steveson’s main training partner ahead of Steveson’s UFC 329 debut, the strongest signal yet that the former champion is not done fighting. Jones shared the update on X this week when a fan asked whether he would compete again.
“Never say never, right now we are finishing up Gable’s training camp,” Jones wrote. “He’s looking extraordinary. I’ve been his main training partner, and I’m moving like I never left.”
Jones added, “Stem cells must be working,” crediting his recovery efforts for the return to form. The comments came via Jon Jones on X (Twitter).
The remarks carry extra weight given Jones’ unresolved standoff with the UFC. He requested his release after being denied a spot on the planned White House card and being accused of misrepresenting how negotiations played out with Dana White.
A Physical Proof Of Concept
Many believed that fallout marked the end of the road for the Rochester native, but his training-camp testimony tells a different story. Working hands-on to prepare the 25-year-old Steveson for the Octagon has, by Jones’ account, left him sharp enough to compete at least once more.
That matters because doubt had surrounded his ability to fight again after a health revelation. Jones disclosed earlier this year that he qualifies for a hip replacement due to severe arthritis, and his latest update suggests treatment has reduced the impact of that condition.
Away from the Octagon, Jones has floated alternative ventures, including a super-fight with Francis Ngannou and possible boxing matches, while pursuing an exit from his UFC deal. He has detailed those efforts in his ongoing push to escape his UFC contract.
He has also recently suggested he would be open to mending his relationship with White and booking a major matchup inside the promotion. That sits against the backdrop of a relationship White has continued to praise even amid the dispute, having compared Jones to Michael Jordan.
Whether the training-camp form translates into an actual booking remains to be seen. Jones has built a recent pattern of teasing returns through social media, most recently with a cryptic video after Gane beat Pereira, and this latest post keeps the door open while his future stays unsettled.