Jon Jones returns to the UFC anti-doping program and raises alarm about a possible return at the White House event

Jon Jones is the current UFC heavyweight champion. Photo: Instagram/UFC Brazil.

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Less than two months after announcing that he would retire from MMA and deliver the heavyweight belt (up to 120,2 kg) to the British Tom aspinall, Jon Jones appears to have changed his mind. The former champion is officially back in the UFC's anti-doping program, a mandatory step for anyone wishing to return to the Octagon.

According to Drug Free Sport International (DFSI), which is responsible for collecting tests for the organization, 'Bones' has already provided three samples in 2025. This begins the six-month protocol of random testing required of athletes coming out of retirement, regardless of the time away.

Jon Jones is being tested again after registering a new result in its third sample given so far in 2025 pic.twitter.com/SBEHZkEi3j

— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) August 9, 2025

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The idea to postpone the farewell came shortly after US President Donald Trump revealed plans to host a UFC event at the White House, scheduled for July 2026. The idea apparently rekindled Jones' interest, and he resumed training.

Despite no longer holding the heavyweight title, now held by Aspinall, the veteran has already expressed his desire to face the best fighter in the division upon his return. However, he avoided directly mentioning the Brit, and the highly anticipated matchup between the two remains on hold.

Tom Aspinal and the UFC continue without Jon Jones

Tom aspinall e Cyryl Gane face off at UFC 321. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS Montage

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While Jon Jones have reconsidered retirement, Tom aspinall, who 'inherited' the belt, is now following his own path. The British fighter will make his first defense of the heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 321, against Cyryl Gane, in Abu Dhabi.

Dana White downplays Jon Jones' chances of fighting at UFC White House

With several controversies on his resume and absences from important cards, Jon Jones has become, in Dana's view, an unreliable name for high-profile events. During the press conference after UFC 318, the executive made it clear that he prefers not to take risks by scheduling the fighter for an event of this magnitude.

"I can't risk putting him in key positions in a crucial scenario and something going wrong. Especially the White House card," said Dana White.