UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has gone radio silent since his triumphant return at UFC 285.
UFC President Dana White confirmed to members of the media he hasn’t heard from Jones since then. This comes in light of Jones’ new contract and a presumed UFC 290 fight with Stipe Miocic incoming. Though White’s update doesn’t sound good, he seems cautiously optimistic.
“Jon Jones came out, made quick work, and poof – disappeared. He is ready to fight – he wants Stipe [Miocic], so we will get it figured out.”
Dana With on his lack of contact with Jon Jones after UFC 285
Jones remains a major draw for the UFC. Facing Miocic, often considered to be the greatest heavyweight in the promotion’s history, is a major fight the UFC would want to confirm sooner than later.
This could be a troubling sign from a fighter who has displayed self-destructive tendencies in the past.
The UFC needs Jon Jones to stay out of trouble
Jones is just as likely to sabotage his career outside the octagon as he is to further it within. Trouble has followed Jones for the entirety of his MMA career, and he’s drawn the ire of both White and law enforcement agencies around the country.
It is also possible that Jones might not be happy with whatever terms are being presented for the Miocic bout.
Unless Jones is taking some time off, the UFC is right to be nervous. He is prone to getting into trouble and isn’t above throwing his weight around with the promotion. If Jones is holding out for more money, he’s one of the few fighters White will bend for.
With how much the UFC has dealt with to bring Jones back, this is a headache they don’t need. Jones vs. Miocic is a huge fight that must happen this year. Miocic is 40 years old and has been inactive for nearly two years.
Ultimately, Jones being so quiet is not a good thing, and the sport hopes to hear something from him in the weeks to follow.
