If Jon Jones steps back into the Octagon, he’s made it clear he expects to be compensated handsomely. Following his dominant third-round victory over former champion Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, Jones addressed his future in the sport.
The fight concluded with a spinning back kick to Miocic’s body, solidifying Jones’ position as one of MMA’s most formidable fighters. However, the conversation has now shifted to what—or who—comes next for the reigning heavyweight champion.
Two potential matchups are on the table: a clash with interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall or a showdown with reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. At the UFC 309 post-fight press conference, Jones made it clear which fight he prefers.
“I’m not really worried about the Tom fight; I’m worried about the Pereira fight; that’s what I want to do,” Jones said. “I think if the UFC wants me back, that’s the fight they’ll make. I’ve been really clear about my intentions… I’ll retire the heavyweight belt if I have to. Give the dude what he wants at the end of the day. I feel like I’m at a place where I want to take super-fights. I don’t want to fight dangerous up-and-comers anymore. I want to fight dangerous, established champions. So, Tom can have the heavyweight championship; I don’t really care about it.”
Jones also hinted at retirement if his terms aren’t met, stating, “One of the really good things about negotiating is being willing to walk away from a deal, and that’s the deal that I want. If that’s not what the fans want, I guess I’ll say Sayonara.”
Additionally, Jones emphasized that he expects a lucrative payday, referencing his desire for “f—k you money,” should the UFC want him to fight Tom.
