Former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has admitted that missing the promotion’s White House event remains one of the biggest regrets of his career, although he believes his victory over Stipe Miocic would be a fitting final appearance inside the Octagon.

Jones has not competed since defeating Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024. The former two-division champion has since faced continued speculation about his fighting future, having been linked with a potential appearance at UFC Freedom 250 before ultimately missing out on the event.

“I really do believe that was my last moment inside the cage – and it was great,” said Jones, speaking to The Schmo and as noted by Sherdog. “I got to fight, my brother was still alive at the time, my father was there. I got to tell the world that I love Jesus, and that will never change. I got to salute our President. Stipe Miocic was considered the greatest heavyweight of all time. You know, we’re both older, but to defeat him, I don’t really see how it can get bigger than that.”

Despite his satisfaction with that performance, Jones acknowledged his disappointment at not featuring on the White House card. “That was one of the few nights in my career where I just was thinking, ‘I should have been there.’ I usually don’t regret decisions, but that was one of my big regrets in life, not being a part of the White House. But if I never fight again, I think I’m pretty damn happy,” he said.

Jones has not confirmed whether he intends to compete again. His comments suggest that he remains comfortable with the possibility of retirement, despite previously expressing an interest in returning for the White House event.

Ahead of UFC Freedom 250, Jones claimed that his representatives had been involved in negotiations over a potential appearance. However, UFC CEO Dana White maintained that the former champion had never been under consideration for a place on the card.