Jon Jones has officially vacated his light-heavyweight title as he enters into negotiations with the UFC over a potential heavyweight fight next.
“Just got off the phone with @ufc, today I confirm that I’m vacating the light heavyweight championship,” Jones revealed on Twitter. “It’s officially up for grabs. It’s been an amazing journey, sincere thank you to all my competition, UFC and most importantly you fans.”
When he wrote that message it seemed as if Jones fighting future was uncertain, as he spoke about an interest in fighting at heavyweight, rather than having anything concrete to say about it, hinting that a recent spat with the UFC over his salary remained a stumbling block.
“The last I spoke with @UFC about my salary there was no negotiating. If that ever changes, i’d love to come back and compete again as a heavyweight. Until then, I’ll be enjoying Ufc has a fan and doing my best to take care of my family and community.
“In good faith I will be staying in the testing pool for probably the next half year or so. I’ll continue to lift weights and train all the different martial arts.”
Within an hour of posting that message, Jones was already reporting that he was back in talks with the UFC regarding a heavyweight fight.
“Just had a really positive conversation with @Ufc. Sounds like there will be negotiations for my next fight at heavy weight. All good news, the weight gaining process begins.”
