TLDR
- Jon Jones was in Chechnya during Thanksgiving, eating local food and spending time with leader Ramzan Kadyrov
- Daniel Cormier questioned why Jones wasn’t with family on the holiday, especially after Jones lost his brother Arthur in October
- Jones revealed he’s signing an ambassador deal in Russia and attended Kadyrov’s son’s 18th birthday celebration
- Jones confirmed he was offered a charity grappling match against Cormier and said he would accept
- The potential grappling match would be their third meeting after two UFC fights in 2015 and 2017
Jon Jones spent Thanksgiving in Chechnya instead of at home, prompting criticism from his long-time rival Daniel Cormier. A video circulated on social media showing Jones eating Chechen food during his trip to Russia.
Cormier commented on the video asking why Jones wasn’t with his family on Thanksgiving. The question carried extra weight because Jones’ older brother Arthur died suddenly in October at age 39.
Arthur Jones was a Super Bowl champion and former NFL player. The Baltimore Ravens described him as a man defined by family with infectious energy and eternal positivity.
Jones has been in Russia for several weeks working on business deals. He posted on X that he is signing a major ambassador deal in Russia that he cannot announce yet.
The UFC champion said he was invited by Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov. Jones attended Kadyrov’s son’s 18th birthday celebration where he shot exotic weapons including an RPG.
Jones and Kadyrov Connection Draws Attention
Kadyrov is a U.S.-sanctioned leader who has faced international criticism. Jones has been photographed with Kadyrov and training with Chechen fighter Khamzat Chimaev.
When asked about the ethical concerns, Jones wrote on X that he doesn’t know or see anything. He added that Kadyrov is a great host and included a zipped-mouth emoji.
Jones has been floating between retirement and a potential comeback since vacating his heavyweight title. He has expressed interest in fighting Alex Pereira at a UFC White House event planned for 2026.
Charity Grappling Match Proposed
During a question and answer session on X, Jones revealed he was approached about a charity grappling match with Cormier. Jones said he agreed and predicted a 3-0 record against his rival.
Jones and Cormier fought twice in the UFC. Jones won their 2015 fight by decision at light heavyweight.
Their 2017 rematch ended with Jones winning by knockout. The result was later overturned to a no contest after Jones failed a drug test.
Jones has grappling experience outside the UFC. He submitted Dan Henderson with an arm-triangle at Submission Underground in 2016.
Cormier held titles in two UFC divisions during his career. He and Jones share one of the most famous rivalries in mixed martial arts history.
The charity grappling match has not been officially scheduled. Jones indicated he is waiting to see if the event comes together.
Jones stated he turned down $30 million to fight Tom Aspinall. He said Pereira remains his preferred opponent if he returns to competition.
