​Jon Jones (right) greets Conor McGregor (left) at the ceremonial weigh-in for UFC 285, where Jones challenges Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, March 3, 2023. Jones is set to face Gane on March 4. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images)
Conor McGregor has a devoted admirer in Jon Jones. During MMA’s explosive growth in the 2010s, McGregor and Jones emerged as two of the sport’s biggest stars. McGregor shattered pay-per-view records and won titles in two weight classes, while Jones enjoyed a dominant, undefeated stretch that saw him topple numerous legends and top contenders. Although Jones is effectively retired, he remains tuned into the sport and is especially interested in McGregor’s comeback fight.
Next Saturday, McGregor returns to action for the first time since 2021 when he faces Max Holloway in the welterweight main event of UFC 329 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. In an interview with Red Corner MMA, Jones praised McGregor’s decision to return, highlighting that McGregor could have retired comfortably but chose to compete again “because it shows that he’s a fighter at heart.” “Conor doesn’t need to fight,” Jones said. “He has everything, and I respect that he’s coming back to fight so much because it shows his love for the sport and that he’s still that fighter despite his massive success. I’m rooting for him, I’m proud of him, and I think he’s just great.”
Jones and McGregor are often linked by their on- and off-field histories. Their resumes include notable accolades and equally infamous legal troubles, with Jones facing past arrests for hit-and-run, DWI, and domestic violence, and McGregor facing assault, assault and battery, and a civil case over sexual assault allegations—eventually settled with McGregor found liable in the civil matter.
Yet Jones emphasizes a shared respect for McGregor’s accomplishments outside the cage. “The businessman he’s become for our sport shows that fighters can expand beyond competition,” Jones said. “He built brands like Proper No. Twelve and more, and I’m proud of Conor. I’ve been a fan for life.” Jones noted McGregor’s resilience through ups and downs as a powerful example for athletes everywhere.