Jon Jones was eager to secure a position on the UFC’s “Freedom 250” card at the White House, so much so that he ended his retirement from the summer of 2025 just weeks following its announcement. Unfortunately, when UFC CEO Dana White revealed the White House card during the UFC 326 broadcast, Jones’s name was notably absent, prompting him to request a release from his UFC contract.

Jones, who retired as heavyweight champion in 2025, faced criticism for seemingly ending his career rather than fight interim title holder Tom Aspinall. White stated that he would never let Jones headline such a momentous event due to trust issues tied to Jones’s past problems outside the Octagon.

During UFC 326’s post-fight press conference, White reiterated his stance:

“Never, ever, ever, which I told you guys a hundred thousand times, was Jon Jones ever even remotely in my mind to fight at the White House.”

He referred to claims that Jones had severe hip issues, including arthritis that may require a hip replacement, using Jones’s own words from a video he filmed with a fan.

Jones disputed White’s iteration of events, asserting that he had been in talks for the White House fight, stating:

“Yes, I have arthritis in my hip and it’s painful, but that doesn’t mean I can’t fight.”

After several previous social media posts challenging White’s narrative, Jones made a more complete response. He explains:

“I understand business deals fall through sometimes, but going out publicly and saying things that aren’t true isn’t right.”

Jones expressed disappointment in the UFC’s characterization of his abilities and formally asked for his contract to be terminated, emphasizing his willingness to fight despite health concerns.

For further details, you can read more about the event here.