Jon Jones has confirmed that he is in “negotiations” with the UFC over a fight on the White House card in a huge update.
The American has not fought since winning the only defence of his maligned heavyweight title reign against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, which was then followed by his retirement last June after refusing to fight then-interim champion Tom Aspinall.
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But ever since hanging up the gloves, the former two-division champion has flirted with coming out of retirement for the planned fightcard at the White House this summer.
Having made his interest in being involved abundantly clear over recent months, Jones has now revealed he is in talks with the UFC over a return to the Octagon for the mammoth event.
“I’m in negotiations with the UFC about this White House thing,” the 38-year-old said. “I’m a very, very, very proud American and I cannot wait to represent one more time, so let’s see what happens.”
UFC president Dana White confirmed that fights for this summer’s White House card “should” be announced “this week” in an Instagram live on Friday night.
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That announcement came alongside the news that Alex Pereira had vacated his light-heavyweight title and while no explanation for the development, it stoked speculation that “Poatan” could be set to make the highly-touted move up a division to heavyweight.
This could open the door for a super-fight with Jones, who has previously called out the Brazilian and shown a keen desire to share the cage with another multi-weight champion.
Pereira could also be pitted in an interim heavyweight title fight, perhaps against Ciryl Gane, at the event.
Reigning champion Tom Aspinall is currently out with a serious eye injury sustained against Frenchman Gane in October. His recovery and fighting future remain up in the air, as he has undergone multiple surgeries.
