Jon Jones is making his highly anticipated return to the UFC octagon at Madison Square Garden after an 18-month hiatus. The legendary fighter will defend his heavyweight title for the first time in the main event of UFC 309, where he will face former two-time heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic. This fight marks the second event of an eight-fight contract Jones signed in early 2023, a deal that has cemented his status as one of the highest-paid athletes in UFC history.
Jones’ return comes with significant financial rewards, with a guaranteed purse of $2 million for his fight with Miocic. This amount dwarfs the $500,000 fixed purse he earned in his 2017 rematch against Daniel Cormier. Additionally, Jones’ earnings will be bolstered by discretionary bonuses and his share of pay-per-view sales, similar to the lucrative arrangements of other UFC stars like Conor McGregor. McGregor, who has long been the highest-paid fighter in the promotion, holds a record-breaking contract guaranteeing $3 million per fight.
The UFC and Jones’ team worked collaboratively to secure his new deal, which both sides have described as groundbreaking. Jones’ advisor, Richard Schaefer, hailed the agreement as fair and historic, emphasizing that it recognizes Jones as the greatest of all time (GOAT) and a generational talent. While the negotiations were lengthy, both parties approached the process with mutual respect, resulting in a deal that satisfies everyone involved.
Schaefer also highlighted the significance of Jones’ contract, which makes him the highest-paid heavyweight in UFC history and the second-highest-paid fighter overall, just behind McGregor. This acknowledgment of Jones’ legacy and marketability underscores his pivotal role in the UFC’s success. The deal, while challenging to finalize, reflects the willingness of both sides to compromise and secure a beneficial agreement.
Jones’ return not only promises an exciting matchup with Miocic but also reaffirms his status as one of the sport’s most iconic figures. With his new contract and heavyweight title defense, Jones is poised to further cement his legacy in the UFC. Fans and the promotion alike are eager to witness his comeback in what is expected to be one of the most significant events in UFC history.
