Jon Jones posts emotional end-of-year message amidst UFC contract negotiations for Tom Aspinall fight
12/31/2024 08:30 PM
Jon Jones reflected after a headline-filled year for him in and out of the cage.
UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones is fresh off a triumphant showing in his long-awaited showdown with Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. In one of the most dominant performances of his career, Jones systemically broke down the former champion Miocic en route to a late-round TKO victory.
It was an exceptional end to what had been a long road back to the Octagon for Jones, stemming from a torn pectoral tendon suffered last year. After initially teasing retirement, he’s in active negotiations with the UFC to potentially fight Tom Aspinall in 2025.
As the final hours of 2024 ticked off the clock, Jones took to social media to address his followers, as he prepares for what could be another accolade-laden year.
Jon Jones recaps 2024 ahead of likely Tom Aspinall fight booking
Jones shared a message with his social media followers on the final day of 2024.
“Man, 2024… what a year. I've gotta say, this one's been special. It's been full of challenges, blessings, and opportunities, and I'm just beyond grateful for the ride,” Jones posted. “None of it would've been possible without the people who've been rockin' with me through it all—my family, my team, my coaches, and, of course, all of y'all who support me every step of the way.
“This year, I leveled up in ways I never thought possible—on the mat, in the Octagon, on the screen, and most importantly, as a man and a father. That doesn't happen without a strong foundation, and y'all have been that for me.
“So, from the bottom of my heart—thank you. The love and energy you give me push me to keep going and striving for greatness. And trust me when I say this—this is just the beginning. Let's keep building. God bless!”
Jon Jones voted for the first time, returned to the cage in 2024
In a follow-up tweet, Jones reflected on 2024 by listing his accomplishments in and out of fighting.
Before his UFC 309 win, Jones teased retirement or facing Alex Pereira for his UFC finale, but those plans appear to be off the table after UFC CEO Dana White’s dismissals. Aspinall remains optimistic that the Jones fight will take place in 2025, potentially for the UFC’s annual International Fight Week event in Las Vegas.
In the meantime, Jones is enjoying some downtime as he plots his next move. If his recent social media posts are indications of what’s to come, expect big things from Jones in 2025.
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