IBO boxing chairman Al Siesta suggested a bare-knuckle bout between Jon “Bones” Jones and MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko in Moscow’s Red Square, but Jones has formally declined the invitation. Jones mentioned his long-standing contractual commitments with the UFC and his deep regard for Emelianenko, describing him as a key role model with Anderson Silva when he was younger.

According to sources, Jones firmly stated, “No… I don’t want to fight Fedor. I absolutely love Fedor… he’s been one of my big idols.”

His decision signals a clear focus: to return under the UFC banner, not external promoters.

The Allure of the White House Card in 2026

Jones’ passion in combat has evolved into a genuinely unique concept: a UFC event held on the White House grounds on July 4, 2026, to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. Jones promptly re-entered the UFC’s anti-doping pool to keep the door open when President Donald Trump announced the card.

He views the event as more meaningful than regular fights:

“It gives me a greater purpose… something deeper to fight for—a ‘why’ that goes beyond paychecks or belts.”

Former Retirement Reversed Amid New Motivation

Jones declared his retirement in June 2025, refusing a heavyweight title unification battle against Tom Aspinall. Despite Dana White’s confirmation of his retirement and the designation of Aspinall as undisputed champion, Jones has subsequently switched direction, entering the UFC’s testing pool in preparation for a prospective return.

He underlined at this turnaround that his current motivation comes from inside, not from an adversary:

“I don’t care who I fight… I found my reason why.”

UFC Hesitant But Not Dismissive

UFC President Dana White remains cautious about placing Jones in such a high-profile spot, citing concerns over reliability and risk:

“I can’t risk putting him in big positions … have something go wrong.”

Jones publicly responded with confidence, affirming his readiness:

“I’m staying sharp, continuing to train like a professional. I’ll be ready for whatever comes next.”

The Legacy Stakes: Stakes Bigger Than Any Opponent

Jones is largely regarded as the best MMA fighter of all time. He has won both the UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight titles, defended them a record 12 times, and overcome personal turmoil to remain a powerful force.

Fans and observers have argued that a battle on the White House lawn—perhaps against Aspinall, the undisputed heavyweight champion—is symbolic of a former MMA king returning to protect American pride on home territory.

Veteran fighters such as Colby Covington have publicly offered to fight Jones, but the weight class difference makes this improbable. Jones’ words, however, underline his indifference for individual opponents at this stage, since his goal is returning to what might be an iconic challenger context.

What’s Next

Although no opponent has been confirmed, Tom Aspinall is the most likely candidate to retain the heavyweight title by mid-2026.

Conor McGregor also allegedly wants to participate on the White House show, which may lead to promotional conflict at the top of the UFC’s hierarchy.

Final Thought: Jones’ Comeback on His Own Terms

Jon Jones has denied a high-profile battle with MMA icon Fedor Emelianenko, not out of disrespect, but for long-term strategic reasons. His focus is entirely on the United States, where he will make his UFC return on what may be the most anticipated show in combat sports history.

If achieved, Jones’ return to the White House grounds would signal the end of a career devoted pursuing recognition. It is not only about winning; this is an opportunity to reflect legacy, identity, and American sports spectacle on a worldwide scale.