Daniel Cormier: Jon Jones Shouldn't Retire After UFC 309

Waren Burn

less than a minute read

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20-11-2024

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The recent UFC 309 event saw Jon Jones successfully defend his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic, a victory that left many questioning the future of arguably the greatest mixed martial artist of all time. Immediately following the fight, Jones hinted at retirement, a prospect that has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world. However, former UFC double champion Daniel Cormier believes Jones’ retirement talk is premature.

Cormier's Counterargument

In a recent interview, Cormier, a long-time rival and friend of Jones, expressed his strong belief that Jones should not hang up his gloves just yet. Cormier argued that Jones, at 36, is still at the peak of his physical abilities and possesses an unmatched skill set within the heavyweight division. He highlighted Jones's dominant performance against Miocic, a testament to his ongoing dominance.

Unfulfilled Potential

Cormier emphasized that Jones’s career still holds significant potential. A superfight against Francis Ngannou, a matchup that has captivated fight fans for years, remains a possibility. Furthermore, Cormier suggested that Jones could continue his reign at heavyweight, facing other top contenders and solidifying his legacy as the greatest heavyweight champion in UFC history. Retiring now, Cormier posits, would be a disservice to Jones's talent and the sport itself.

Beyond the Octagon

While acknowledging the physical toll of professional fighting, Cormier also addressed the emotional and psychological factors potentially influencing Jones's decision. He highlighted the immense pressure and scrutiny Jones has faced throughout his career, suggesting that taking time to reflect is important. However, Cormier firmly believes that retirement shouldn't be a hasty decision driven by temporary feelings but rather a deliberate choice made after careful consideration.

A Legacy Defined

Ultimately, Cormier's message is clear: Jones's career is far from over. His achievements are undoubtedly impressive, but his potential remains largely untapped within the heavyweight division. While retirement is a personal decision, Cormier believes that Jones has much more to offer the UFC and the fight fans, and that a premature exit would leave a significant void within the sport's landscape. The MMA world awaits Jones's final decision, hoping it will be one that allows his remarkable journey to continue.