Dana White Dismisses Jon Jones for UFC White House Card

UFC president cites Jones' health issues as reason he was never considered for the upcoming event.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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UFC president Dana White has revealed that Jon Jones was never going to be part of the upcoming UFC White House card, titled "Freedom 250". White cited Jones' health issues, including arthritis in his hips that may require a hip replacement, as the main reason he was not considered for the event. White also dismissed Jones' claims that he was in negotiations to be on the card, stating he had already informed Jones' team that it was never going to happen.

Why it matters

The UFC's White House card is a highly anticipated event, and the exclusion of a star like Jon Jones has raised questions about the card's lineup and drawing power. White's comments shed light on the behind-the-scenes decision-making process and the factors that influenced the final card selection.

The details

According to White, Jones wanted the headline spot on the White House card, but it ultimately went to Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. White stated that Jones' health issues, including reports of him barely being able to run due to hip problems, were a major factor in the decision not to include him on the card. White also dismissed Jones' claims that he was in negotiations to be on the card, saying he had already informed Jones' team that it was never going to happen.

  • The UFC White House card, titled "Freedom 250", is scheduled for June 14, 2026.
  • Jon Jones last competed in the UFC on November 16, 2024 at UFC 309, defeating Stipe Miocic via TKO.

The players

Dana White

The president of the UFC, who has overseen the promotion's growth and success over the past two decades.

Jon Jones

A former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion, widely considered one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time, but has faced numerous personal and legal issues throughout his career.

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What they’re saying

“Never, ever, ever, which I told you guys 100,000 times was Jon Jones even remotely in my mind to fight at the White House.”

— Dana White, UFC President (nypost.com)

“Jon Jones came out and was like 'I'm in negotiations right now for the White House fight' after I had already sent a text to his lawyer saying, 'never going to happen, ever.'”

— Dana White, UFC President (nypost.com)

The takeaway

This decision by Dana White and the UFC highlights the importance of fighter health and fitness in the promotion's decision-making process, even for high-profile events. It also underscores the need for transparency and clear communication between the UFC and its athletes, as the conflicting statements between White and Jones suggest a disconnect in their understanding of the situation.