In a recent tour across Australia and New Zealand, UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones addressed his future in MMA and hinted at the possibility of retirement. However, Jones has not made any concrete decisions about hanging up his gloves just yet. During his recovery from a torn pectoral muscle that forced him to withdraw from his scheduled bout in November, Jones took the time to reflect on his career trajectory.

Rumors have been circulating for months that Jones might retire after facing Stipe Miocic, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion. This potential retirement would unfortunately prevent interim champion Tom Aspinall from having a chance to unify the titles. However, Jones stated that he has not ruled out a fight with Aspinall and may consider it in the future.

The determining factor for Jones' decision hinges on his performance against Miocic and his recovery from the injury. "I'm really going to base whether I continue on how I compete against Stipe, how I heal up from this injury," Jones revealed during an interview with Submission Radio. "But the Tom fight is definitely not off the table."

Jones, who holds multiple accolades in his career, including the most title defenses in the history of the UFC light heavyweight division, recognizes the achievements of Miocic and believes the matchup between them is deserved. "Stipe and I have both been in the sport for a long time," Jones stated. "Me and Stipe have unfinished business, and I think it's the only fair thing to do."

While Jones acknowledges that there will always be talented contenders in the UFC, he admits that facing the next person in line lacks the same appeal at this stage in his career. He emphasized the importance of knowing when it is time to step away, having already provided for his family and paved the way for his loved ones.

As for Aspinall, Jones does not disregard his talent and potential. However, he believes that Aspinall has not reached a level where he determines Jones' schedule and decisions. Jones encourages Aspinall to focus on building his own career, aiming to achieve greatness and accumulate achievements that place him amongst the upper echelons of heavyweight fighters.

Regarding the timing of the fight with Miocic, Jones mentioned that he was approached about headlining UFC 300 in April. However, due to his ongoing recovery and lack of confidence in his body's readiness, Jones declined the opportunity. "I just don't think I'll be ready," Jones admitted. He emphasized the importance of giving his all in his remaining events and making a full comeback.

While retirement looms as a possibility, Jon Jones remains diligent in assessing his options and ensuring that any decisions made are in the best interest of his career and personal well-being. The future remains uncertain, but for now, the MMA community eagerly awaits his matchup with Stipe Miocic, while Tom Aspinall continues to climb the ranks, patiently awaiting his opportunity to face a legend in the octagon.