It is no big secret that Jon Jones soon wants to hang up his gloves. While many expected ‘Bones’ to call it quits after his win against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, the heavyweight champion desired to stay long enough for one last dance. But why does he wish to retire so early? While injuries have been a major concern for the 37-year-old, is it why he wishes to get out of the MMA world? Well, ‘Bones’ himself answered the question.

Speaking to YouTuber ‘Alex G Was Here,’ Jon Jones discloses the true motive behind calling it quits despite still being at the top of the game, and while doing so, he also sings some praise for LeBron James. The UFC heavyweight champion said that he wishes to retire early because he doesn’t want CTE or any other brain injury to affect his future relationship and moments with his children.

‘Bones’ said, “I pride myself on being a simple guy. I want to have a real simple life, doing normal stuff, just being a dad, staying healthy, and keeping a good head on my shoulders. You see a lot of fighters who keep going for too long, and they start forgetting their own name. I never want to be a punch-drunk athlete. I just want to get out while I still feel great and save these neurons for my babies, to be a great dad.”

In the video, he further praised other famous dads, such as Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James and American football coach Deion Sanders, for raising their children right and sharing an amazing bond with them. “I love what Deion Sanders is doing with his son and what LeBron James is doing with his son—really passing the torch and teaching their kids the way. That’s what I want to do. I want to teach my kids how to be great business people, make good money, be dedicated athletes, or just be good citizens, husbands, and wives. That’s my goal.”

It is worth noting that James’ son, Bronny James, is earning himself a lot of praise for his performance at the G League Winter Showcase. The then 19-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest during a practice session while at the University of Southern California last year, and it was through his efforts and support from his family that he is back again on the court and earning a name for himself. Now, Jon Jones wants to be the backbone for his children as well, especially after identifying himself as a “girl dad.”

Jon Jones on being a father to his daughters

The UFC heavyweight champ is a proud father of his three daughters and loves to identify himself as a “girl dad.” The heavyweight champion wanted to retire young after his UFC 309 fight. However, despite retaining his title successfully, he harbors a desire for yet another challenge in 2025. So why is he risking his health when he said that he does not wish to suffer an injury that might affect his future with these children? Well, that’s because ‘Bones’ believes his daughters will be taking good care of him in the future.

In an earlier interview, he stated, “I am a girl dad, and I love it. They say that little girls grow up to take care of their dad forever, and I’m surrounded by little girls, and I know that I’m gonna be in good hands for the rest of my life. When I’m old and crazy, I tell them they better stop by and cook me a meal and check on me, make sure I got clean laundry. Right? Make sure I’ve got a lot of love.” Jones further added, “So being a girl dad is awesome. Obviously I want a son so bad, but these girls are more than plenty. They’re going to do extraordinary things with their lives, and I’m just excited to see the way they turn out. I’m a blessed man to have so much love around me.”

It is heartwarming to see that the great Jon Jones, who is feared by many as the MMA GOAT in the Octagon, is just a gentle giant for his daughters. Seeing how they often love spending quality time together, it seems like Jones is already on the right path and can happily enjoy his retirement. But what do you think? Should the heavyweight champion retire so young, or can he still fight for a few more years? Let us know in the comments.