Anderson Silva pays tribute to Jon Jones after retirement announcement: 'Thank you!'

Jones (right) and Anderson (left) have a good relationship. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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Anderson Silva reacted to Jon Jones's retirement from UFC with a message of support on social media. On his official Instagram account, the organization's former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) made a new demonstration of affection for the North American and thanked him for his achievements inside the octagon in his career. The announcement that 'Bones' would be leaving MMA was made by Dana White last Saturday (21).

“My brother, thank you for every magical moment. Your dominance inside the Octagon is unmatched, and this marks the end of another legendary era,” wrote the Brazilian.

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The connection between the two goes beyond mere formality. In an interview with ESPN in May of this year, Jon Jones included Anderson Silva on his MMA 'Mount Rushmore' alongside Georges St-Pierre and Demetrious Johnson, without hierarchical order.

On the other hand, 'Spider' has already called his friend a 'younger brother', whenever asked if the two fighters have ever come close to measuring forces in the octagon for Dana White's company.

Jon Jones made history inside the octagon, but he was also involved in controversy

Jones ends his career at the age of 37 as champion of two categories – light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) and heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg) -, in addition to being the holder of historical records: most title defenses in the light heavyweight division (11), most victories in title disputes (16) and the title of youngest champion in UFC history, won at the age of 23 against Mauritius ShogunIn 2011.

The American's career was also marked by setbacks outside the octagon, such as suspensions for doping (2016, 2017), arrests for reckless driving (2015) and domestic violence (in 2021, later archived).

Bones' retirement changes the UFC landscape. For the first time since 2004, no American holds a men's belt. Tom aspinall assumes the position of linear holder.