Fans around the world will discuss Jon Jones’ retirement. While Khabib’s decision to retire came as a shock—especially given how early he stepped away—Jones’ retirement feels different to many, particularly because a potential fight with Tom Aspinall was being discussed. Although opinions on Jones stepping away are divided, UFC legend Rashad Evans believes it was a smart move.
Evans believes ‘Bones’ retiring is the right decision. While a matchup with Aspinall would have been exciting, he feels Jones has nothing to prove. After accomplishing so much and solidifying his place in history, taking another fight offers little reward. Aspinall might be a rising star, but to Jones, he’s just another name—one that doesn’t significantly impact a legacy that already stands above the rest.
“I think it’s a smart move. Because the fight with Tom Aspinall was a very interesting fight. But he is at the point of the game where he has done it all. He has achieved the unachievable it would be great for us fans. To see him but at the end of the day what does it really do for him. Tom Aspinall is just another opponent his legacy outweighs that,” he said.
"Jon Jones retiring? It's a smart move," says Rashad Evans. Jones’ former teammate from Albuquerque’s Jackson-Wink MMA thinks that retiring was a smart move for Jon, who has “achieved the unachievable in this sport.” @SugaRashadEvans @JonnyBones pic.twitter.com/naxJOT8aGd
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) June 25, 2025
Indeed, the UFC now has to move forward without Jones. But on the brighter side, his retirement brings a sense of clarity about the division’s future. With the uncertainty gone, the promotion can now focus on building new stars and defining the next era of heavyweight contenders.
Rashad Evans Backs Jon Jones As The Greatest Ever
Evans believes fans often overlook past achievements due to the sport’s “what have you done for me lately” mentality, which can be tough for someone like Jon Jones. Still, he believes that once the moment passes and people reflect with more perspective, they will recognize Jones’ career for what it truly is. Despite the controversies and drug-related issues, Evans calls him the greatest to ever step in the octagon and argues that dismissing that greatness stems from bias.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
Doubtless, spending nearly two decades in the UFC without a single loss by decision or knockout is a remarkable feat. Jon Jones has consistently proven himself at the highest level, overcoming elite opponents like Daniel Cormier and even preparing to face Stipe Miocic with the same confidence. He has not only met every challenge but often made it look easy, solidifying his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
