Former UFC champion Jon Jones recently reflected on the hardest hit he has ever taken during his illustrious career. In a conversation with streamer Adin Ross, Jones identified the moment as a powerful punch from fellow fighter Rashad Evans, which he described as both swift and impactful. This revelation comes as Jones prepares for a potential return to the octagon after a brief hiatus.
Jones, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters in history, has an impressive career record of 28 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no contest. His only official defeat—a controversial disqualification against Matt Hamill in December 2009—remains a topic of debate among fans and analysts alike. The 35-year-old fighter’s accolades include victories over renowned opponents such as Stipe Miocic, Daniel Cormier, and Alexander Gustafsson.
During the December 2024 interview, Jones recounted the moment he was struck by Evans, saying, “The hardest punch I ever received was from a guy named ‘Suga’ Rashad Evans. He caught me with an overhand right, the same exact punch he hit Chuck Liddell with, and dropped him.” He emphasized the speed of the punch, recalling how it caught him off guard and nearly compromised his balance. Jones expressed gratitude for not being knocked unconscious, stating, “Thank God I didn’t become unconscious because I probably should have been.”
Despite taking such a significant hit, Jones went on to defeat Evans by unanimous decision, showcasing his resilience and skill.
Future Plans and Recent Developments
Jones has been inactive since his knockout victory over Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024. Initially, he was slated to face Tom Aspinall this year to unify the heavyweight division. Reports indicate that Jones agreed to a substantial deal worth $30 million for the matchup but later withdrew, leading to tensions with UFC President Dana White. White has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction, stating he cannot rely on Jones after his withdrawal from the Aspinall fight.
In June 2025, Jones briefly stepped away from MMA but reconsidered his decision following news of an upcoming UFC event scheduled at the White House for June 14, 2025. Jones is eager to be part of the event, yet White has dismissed this possibility on multiple occasions. The UFC CEO’s comments suggest uncertainty surrounding Jones’s future involvement, as nothing has been finalized.
As preparations for the White House event move forward, it remains to be seen if Jones can rebuild trust with UFC officials and secure his place on the card. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, eager to see if one of the sport’s all-time greats will return to the octagon once more.
