Jon Jones Shares Bare-Knuckle Training Footage

Jon Jones’ fighting days may not be over after he shared some footage doing some bareknuckle fighting. 

The former two-division UFC champ has transitioned from the Octagon to a global ambassadorial role with IBA Bare Knuckle, following a fallout over the UFC Freedom 250 card. The rift between Jones and the UFC reached a breaking point during negotiations for UFC Freedom 250. Jones claimed to be in deep negotiations for the event. However, Dana White denied this.

White cited medical concerns, claiming Jones is suffering from severe arthritis in his hips and requires a hip replacement, making a return nearly impossible. Following the snub, Jones publicly requested his release from the UFC. On March 24, 2026, Jones officially announced his next "side quest."

IBA Role

"The IBA serves as a global home for athletes. We are dedicated to supporting those who strive for excellence at the highest levels. Jon Jones’ decision to join us is a testament to the strength of our vision. We welcome him to our international sporting family," Umar Kremlev (President of the International Boxing Association)

"I am proud to join the IBA Bare Knuckle league as a global ambassador. On March 28th, I’ll be co-hosting my first event in Saint Petersburg. Unlike other organizations, IBA Bare Knuckle provides a real platform for champions to shape the future of the sport. I want to thank Umar Kremlev for this opportunity—together, we are building a new global era for bare-knuckle fighting," Jones

Bare-knuckle Future?

He has partnered with IBA Bare Knuckle—the burgeoning bare-knuckle division of the International Boxing Association—as its Global Ambassador. Jones made his first official appearance for the league on March 28 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, serving as a guest co-host for the event headlined by Yoel Romero. On April 1, 2026, Jones posted a video of some pad work, fueling speculation that his ambassador role could eventually lead to a sanctioned bare-knuckle bout.

Find all the latest boxing news and MMA breaking updates on boxingnews.com.