Jon Jones dismisses Usyk boxing talk, remains in USADA pool

Jon Jones has ruled out a boxing match with Oleksandr Usyk but left the door ajar for a return to MMA competition.

After unified heavyweight champion Usyk announced plans to vacate his titles for a retirement superfight, speculation swirled that Jones might be the opponent. Jones dismissed the idea in an interview with Ring Magazine, as MMA Fighting first reported. He said Usyk ranks among the all-time greats in heavyweight boxing but that fighting under boxing rules would handicap him. He offered to face Usyk in an MMA bout instead, adding that the public knows what would happen if they fought under mixed martial arts rules.

Jones coaching Gable Steveson while testing continues

Though Jones briefly retired in 2025, he remains enrolled in the UFC anti-doping programme and continues to submit to regular blood and urine testing, per the report. He told Ring Magazine that coaching heavyweight prospect Gable Steveson has scratched his competitive itch. Jones said being backstage at events and working in the gym with Steveson lets him experience the sport through a younger fighter. That role has been fulfilling, he said, though not quite as much as competing himself.

Jones described his current status as keeping the door open rather than officially closing it. He said if he feels a calling from higher powers to return, he will answer it, but for now he is content focusing on someone else's career. Steveson made his UFC debut at UFC 329 earlier this month. Jones was in his corner for the fight, which took place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

No timeline has been set for a potential Jones comeback. UFC OKC takes place this weekend.

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — Morning Report | Jon Jones shoots down Oleksandr Usyk talk, leaves door open for UFC return | MMA Fighting