The International Boxing Association (IBA) has opened the door for former UFC star Jon Jones to transition into professional boxing. The 38-year-old Jones, who previously held titles in both the UFC light-heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, has long been rumored to be considering a switch to heavyweight boxing.
Most recently, Jones expressed a desire to fight heavyweight boxer Francis Ngannou under boxing rules. IBA President Umar Kremlev confirmed on Tuesday that the organization is actively tracking this potential transition. "If we're talking about a potential move into boxing for Jon Jones, these are the kinds of stories that interest us," Kremlev stated.
"A fight between Jones and either Daniel Cormier or Francis Ngannou under boxing rules is what the whole world is talking about and waiting for," Kremlev added. Jones is expected to attend the IBA's Bare Knuckle tournament in Russia next month, where he will likely speak with officials about a potential boxing debut.
Jones retired from mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2025 after multiple run-ins with the United States Anti-Doping Agency. The American fighter's potential entrance into boxing is generating significant interest and anticipation among fans and boxing enthusiasts.
This is huge! Imagine the spectacle of seeing Jon Jones in the ring against Francis Ngannou. It would be a dream fight that boxing fans have been waiting for. What do you think, would Jones be able to adapt to the different rules and pace of boxing?