"I suffer from significant arthritis," reveals Jon Jones as he discusses the toll his fighting career has taken on his body, which is now preventing a much-anticipated wrestling match against Daniel Cormier.
Damon Martin, a seasoned journalist with over two decades of experience in covering combat sports, highlights that fans have been buzzing about a potential clash between the fierce rivals for quite some time. Cormier, a distinguished two-time Olympian, has made it clear that he would dominate Jones if the latter ever ventured into the wrestling arena. However, it appears that injuries accumulated during Jones's extensive fight career are serious enough to deter him from engaging in this rivalry anytime soon.
In a candid video shared on social media, Jones opened up about his struggles, stating, "I have severe arthritis and most people don’t know that. My left hip is covered in arthritis. I actually already qualify for a hip replacement. During my last training camp, I was in so much pain that I could hardly sleep at night."
Jon's last fight took place in 2024, where he successfully defended his UFC heavyweight championship title against Stipe Miocic. Following that victory, he announced his retirement, expressing a lack of interest in unifying titles with interim champion Tom Aspinall. Yet, he soon changed his mind and indicated a desire to return to the octagon, eyeing a spot on the UFC White House card scheduled for June. UFC CEO Dana White has voiced his reservations about including Jones in this significant event, citing concerns over his reliability and the overall importance of the card.
At this moment, the UFC has yet to reveal any matchups for the upcoming White House event, leaving the door open for Jones's participation. However, when it comes to pursuing a wrestling match with Cormier, Jones has prioritized other aspects of his life over this longstanding feud. "I have a three-year-old son," he stated. "I want to make the most of what I have left in my hips to be able to play with him."
This revelation raises an important question about the sacrifices athletes make for their careers. What do you think about Jones's situation? Should he prioritize personal well-being over professional rivalries? Join the conversation below!
