TLDR
- Daniel Cormier questioned why Jon Jones spent Thanksgiving in Russia instead of with family
- Jones responded by saying Cormier is “living rent free” in his head after losing their fights
- Jones has been in Russia for business deals and attended events with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov
- Jones said he agreed to a charity grappling match against Cormier, predicting a 3-0 record
- Jones retired in June 2025 but reversed his decision and wants to fight at a UFC White House card in 2026
Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier have reignited their long-running feud over social media during the Thanksgiving holiday. The former UFC champions exchanged comments after Cormier questioned Jones’ decision to spend the holiday in Russia.
Cormier posted a question on social media asking why Jones was not with his family for Thanksgiving. The comment came after clips showed Jones traveling through Russia during the holiday period.
Jones responded with a video message where he wished people a happy Thanksgiving. He was shown petting a dog while sending well wishes to those not with family.
The UFC legend then delivered a direct response to Cormier. Jones wrote that Cormier is still thinking about how he spends his time years after their fights ended.
“Imagine a man getting his ass kicked and years later he’s pondering how I spend my holidays,” Jones said. “Brother, that’s not a concern, that’s a long term rental. Utilities included.”
Russia Trip Details
Jones has spent recent weeks in Russia working on business ventures. He revealed on social media that he signed an ambassador deal in the country but could not share full details.
During his trip, Jones attended the 18th birthday party of Ramzan Kadyrov’s son. Kadyrov is the Chechen leader who faces sanctions from the United States government.
At the celebration, Jones was seen firing weapons including an RPG. He has also been training with UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev.
When asked about ethical concerns regarding his association with Kadyrov, Jones replied that he “doesn’t know or see anything.” He added that Kadyrov has been a great host and posted a zipped-mouth emoji.
Jones and Cormier fought twice in the UFC Octagon. Jones won both fights, first by unanimous decision at UFC 182 in 2015.
The rematch happened at UFC 214 in 2017, where Jones secured a second-round knockout. However, the result was changed to a no contest after Jones tested positive for a banned substance.
Potential Grappling Match
Jones revealed he was approached about competing against Cormier in a charity grappling match. He said he agreed to the match and predicted he would win for a third time.
“I was approached the other day about grappling DC for charity, I said absolutely,” Jones said. “Let’s see what comes of it. 3-0.”
Nothing has developed from the proposal so far. The likelihood of the match happening remains unclear.
Jones retired from UFC competition in June 2025 and vacated his heavyweight title. He later reversed his retirement decision.
Jones wants to compete at a UFC White House card scheduled for June 2026. His focus is on securing a fight against the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.
UFC president Dana White is not enthusiastic about Jones appearing on that card. Jones has also been linked to a potential fight against current heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
Georges St-Pierre commented on a potential Jones versus Aspinall matchup. He said it was difficult to pick against Jones despite his age.
“Jones is an anomaly,” St-Pierre said. “You cannot bet against Jon Jones. Even though on paper, you might say he’s older, he’s not in his prime anymore, but man, he’s Jon Jones.”
Jones continues to train and has been seen working with fighters in Russia. His plans for returning to competition remain uncertain as he explores opportunities for his next fight.
