Jon Jones is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @jonnybones
Renato Moicano harshly criticized the retirement of Jon Jones of MMA, officially announced by UFC President Dana White after the UFC Baku on Saturday (21). In a video published on his YouTube channel, the Brazilian accused the former light heavyweight (93 kg) and heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg) champion of 'throwing his career in the mud' by avoiding confrontations with emerging opponents such as Tom aspinall, choose suitable rivals and hold the belt for two years without defenses.
“In my view, he threw his legacy away. […] This does tarnish his career as the best of all time,” said the Rio native.
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Moicano detailed his position with a chronology of decisions that, in his analysis, tarnished 'Bones' trajectory. The Brazilian highlighted that the former champion waited for the dangerous Francis Ngannou of the UFC before winning the heavyweight title against Cyryl Gane in 2023.
He then defended the belt just once against Stipe Miocic, a 41-year-old veteran whom Moicano described as 'literally a firefighter and retired'. The subsequent period of inactivity, lasting approximately two years without defending the title, culminated with the surprise announcement of his retirement by telephone.
Other reactions to Jon Jones' retirement
While Moicano led the criticism, other names reacted differently. Khabib Nurmagomedov, former undefeated lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg), paid tribute.
“Congratulations, legend. […] You are the best fighter in UFC history,” wrote the Russian.
Heavyweights without 'Bones'
Jones' departure reshaped the heavyweight landscape. Tom aspinall inherited the linear belt, with the Brazilian Jailton Malhadinho listed as a possible challenger.
Daniel Cormier, a former rival of Jones, suggested that Malhadinho or Cyryl Gane be the new champion's next opponents. The Bahian has already started a campaign on social media to be chosen.
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