Jon Jones requests UFC release following White House snub

Jon Jones said he entered real negotiations for the June 14 UFC White House card and is now seeking a release after a lower-than-expected offer. Jon Jones wrote on X that talks were "real" for the UFC White House card, while Dana White maintained he was not seriously considered. He said he was "lowballed" despite lowering his price. Jones added hip arthritis does not preclude fighting, citing recent stem cell treatment and planned camp. Before the announcement, he was linked to Alex Pereira, who will face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title. Talks for a Tom Aspinall unification fell through; Jones briefly retired last June, reentered drug testing for the White House event, and last fought at UFC 309 in November 2024.