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Jon Jones stuns the world with shock announcement as new UFC heavyweight champion is crowned
Tom Aspinall has been upgraded to UFC heavyweight champion after Jon Jones announced his retirement from the sport.
The British star has been interim holder of the title for almost two years, but he has now been awarded the full title after Dana White announced that Jones has informed him of his retirement plans.
Both have excellent wins, and although each brings different qualities to the Octagon, a bout featuring the two biggest names was expected to deliver inside the cage and also generate huge interest and business.
Instead, fans will now have to wonder what might have been following Jones’s announcement that he will no longer fight.
“Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC. This decision comes after a lot of reflection, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve experienced over the years,” wrote Jones on his X account.
“From the first time I stepped into the Octagon, my goal was to push the boundaries of what was possible in this sport.
“As I close this chapter of my life, I look forward to new opportunities and challenges ahead. MMA will always be a part of who I am, and I’m excited to see how I can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways. Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey with me. The best is yet to come.”
Aspinall’s first task as heavyweight champion is expected to be a defence of his crown against Ciryl Gane later this year.
Instead, fans will now have to wonder what might have been following Jones’s announcement that he will no longer fight.
Jake Paul vs Julio Cesar Chavez Jr will be streamed exclusively on DAZN PPV, Saturday, June 28. Buy the PPV now here
