Jon Jones reopens the door to UFC comeback after coaching Gable Steveson

Former two-division UFC champion Jon Jones is recovering well from a serious hip injury and teased a potential MMA comeback.

Jon Jones is known for flip-flopping on retirement, and his latest pivot came after training with one of the biggest stars of UFC 329.

Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson will make his highly anticipated UFC debut at UFC 329 next month in Las Vegas. Despite a relatively small sample size in Mixed Martial Arts, Steveson will look to prove the immense hype surrounding his fighting future correct.

Jones is a significant reason behind Steveson’s early career success and quick jump to the big leagues. The former two-division titleholder is arguably the greatest fighter of all-time.

But Jones has had a checkered recent history with UFC CEO Dana White and the brass after his exclusion from the White House card. He publicly called for his release earlier this year, a request that has not been granted.

Jones recently acknowledged additional health-related issues that impacted his decision to retire from MMA last summer. After undergoing stem cell treatment, on Joe Rogan’s advice, Jones sounds open to the idea of fighting again.

Jon Jones raises eyebrows with surprising admission about UFC comeback

After one X follower inquired about Jones potentially returning to fight, the former two-division champion gave an answer that should excite fans.

“Never say never, right now we are finishing up Gable’s training camp. He’s looking extraordinary. I’ve been his main training partner, and I’m moving like I never left,” Jones tweeted.

“Stem cells must be working.”

Jones previously admitted he’s dealt with severe hip arthritis in some of his recent training camps, including for his most recent victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. After a long, drawn-out negotiation to fight Tom Aspinall, Jones vacated the undisputed heavyweight title, and Aspinall was promoted from his interim role.

If history produces foreseeable results, Jones could unretire again and fight for the heavyweight title over the next year. In the meantime, Jones’ focus remains on his brightest pupil, who he predicts will eventually win a heavyweight championship.

What is your prediction for Gable Steveson’s UFC 329 debut? Let us know your thoughts on the talented heavyweight in the comments!