Jon Jones makes shocking statement and puts his retirement in doubt days after hanging up his gloves

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Jon Jones is already stirring up talk of a UFC comeback, just days after tearfully announcing his retirement from fighting.

The legendary two-division world champion made his decision public last Saturday, a few hours after UFC boss Dana White revealed it during the post-fight press conference that followed UFC Baku.

Jones had been linked to an undisputed heavyweight title clash with Tom Aspinall, but instead opted to walk away from the sport.

Less than a week later, Jones is already dropping hints about a return. Speaking to fans, he claimed that he’s ‘not really retired’ – and said he will soon begin travelling America and the world talking to people about MMA.

Jon Jones suggests his MMA career isn’t over

Jon Jones may have confirmed that he was retiring from the UFC after almost two decades in the game, but it appears as though he is already moving away from the idea of stepping away from the sport entirely.

He was heavily criticised after picking retirement over taking a fight with interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.

However, the former two-weight world champion told one fan that he wasn’t really stepping away from the sport entirely, saying: “I appreciate it, but I’m really not retired. I’ll be all over the country and all over the world. Meeting people who love the sport the most.”

He also replied to a fan who claimed Jones would be back, stating: “Wouldn’t that be something?”

• READ MORE: Tom Aspinall wants first title defence against rival who ‘ducked’ him: ‘I was chasing that fight’

Jon Jones made an emotional retirement post on Saturday night after Dana White announcement

The news of Jon Jones’s retirement was again first reported by White during the post-fight press conference after UFC Baku. He announced it rather unceremoniously after a question was put to him by one of the journalists in the room.

After the UFC boss’s announcement, Jones confirmed the decision on social media with a heartfelt message to his team and fans.

“Today, I’m officially announcing my retirement from the UFC. This decision comes after a lot of reflection, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the journey I’ve experienced over the years”, he said.

“From the first time I stepped into the Octagon, my goal was to push the boundaries of what was possible in this sport. Becoming the youngest UFC champion in history, defending my title against some of the best fighters in the world, and sharing unforgettable moments with fans across the globe—these are memories I’ll cherish forever.

“I’ve faced incredible highs and some tough lows, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and made me stronger, both as a fighter and as a person.”