Former UFC two-division champion Jon Jones has launched a video and launched a press release saying he’s withdrawing from a wrestling match with Daniel Cormier.
Two-time rivals within the UFC, Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier appeared destined for a trilogy each inside and outdoors of the Octagon. After their legendary showdown within the UFC, Jones and Cormier rekindled their rivalry whereas teaching on the latest Russian spin-off The Final Fighter.
The 2 former UFC rivals acquired into an argument through the upcoming season of ALF Actuality 3. Jones and Cormier hinted at the potential for competing in a boxing or wrestling match within the close to future.
However Jones not too long ago turned down Cormier wrestling in a video that went viral in Houston. In it, the previous two-division champion claimed “extreme arthritis” in his hip might result in hip alternative surgical procedure. It will possible finish any hopes of Jones returning to the UFC after retiring final summer season.
Jon Jones feedback on viral video claiming he has ‘extreme arthritis’ that might forestall comeback
In a latest assertion, TMZJones stated this after footage of him refusing to do a wrestling match with Cormier went viral.
“It seems that a personal dialog I had at DBX 5 in Houston has gone viral. It occurs. Like most fighters, we typically cope with accidents quietly, however in my case they final for years. Many people hobble round most days and pay the last word worth in well being,” Jones started.
“Should you’re questioning if that is true, it’s. I am grateful for all my battle scars. If I might do it yet again, I might completely do it with out hesitation. I get up day-after-day for it in my profession.”
“Even after changing into one of the vital completed fighters within the historical past of the game, critics make me unhappy that I’ve slowed down over the previous few years. That is known as residing to battle one other day. It is taking the teachings you’ve got discovered and making use of them to enterprise as an alternative of the Octagon. That is known as evolution,” Jones continued. “The UFC is aware of the extent of my arthritis, and so they additionally know that if I’ll put all of it on the road on the finish and endure that stage of ache, the reward must be one thing particular and greater than a giant paycheck. For me, it was and nonetheless is the White Home.
“Whether or not that battle occurs or not, my profession has spanned a few years and is nothing in need of legendary,” Jones concluded. “I left a giant a part of myself in that Octagon, and I am grateful for all of that. And do not get it twisted, I am nonetheless going to kick 99 p.c of your ass on the market. I am nonetheless placing up huge numbers and coaching below the squat rack. I am nonetheless outperforming most of you guys…in all probability after a correct warm-up and loads of stretching.”
Jones hasn’t fought since his win over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. This might be his solely protection of the UFC heavyweight title.
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