Jon Jones responds to Dana White's comments at UFC 318
Jon Jones has expressed disappointment after UFC President Dana White voiced concerns over booking him for the proposed UFC White House card in 2026.
The event, which would take place on Independence Day, is seen as a major opportunity for the UFC, but White’s hesitation to trust Jones due to his past troubles has sparked tension.
In a post-UFC 318 news conference, White admitted that while Jones is undeniably talented, he’s concerned about his history of legal issues.
"It's not even about him winning the belt," White said. "You know how I feel about him. I can't risk putting him in big positions and have something go wrong, especially with the White House card."
Jones, who has had multiple controversies throughout his career, has had a rocky relationship with the UFC and its management.
His refusal to fight Chael Sonnen on short notice, causing the cancellation of UFC 151, his hit-and-run accident leading to his removal from UFC 187, and a series of failed drug tests ahead of UFC 200 and 214 have all contributed to his troubled reputation.
Despite these setbacks, Jones’ return to fighting was reignited after President Donald Trump announced the possibility of hosting a UFC event at the White House.
Jones quickly expressed his desire to headline the card, initially receiving support from White, who even suggested a potential showdown between Jones and interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
However, White’s recent comments have cast doubt on whether Jones will be entrusted with such a monumental opportunity.
In response, Jones took to social media, expressing his disappointment but reaffirming his commitment to the sport.
“I heard the comments made at last night’s press conference,” Jones wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “While I was a little disappointed, I’m still in the UFC’s drug testing pool, staying sharp, and continuing to train like a professional.”
I heard the comments made at last night’s press conference. While I was a little disappointed, I’m still in the UFC’s drug testing pool, staying sharp, and continuing to train like a professional. I’ll be ready for whatever comes next.
In a recent interview, I shared that the…Jones went on to stress the personal significance of the opportunity, stating that fighting at the White House would give him a greater sense of purpose beyond paychecks and titles.
“Fighting for my country gives me a greater purpose,” he said, adding that he’s motivated by the chance to further his legacy.
Jones’ response suggests he remains committed to making a return to the UFC, with his eyes set on an iconic moment at the White House, an event which is shaping up to be the biggest in UFC's entire history.