The UFC heavyweight champion, Jon Jones, has teased the MMA community with news of his imminent return to the octagon. After a surgical detour sidelined him from his first title defense against Stipe Miocic last November, Jones has indicated that an announcement from UFC President Dana White is forthcoming. "I have a date. I'll let the boss Dana announce it," Jones declared on his X Bones account.

The Anticipation Builds Around Jon Jones' Return

Jones, often heralded as the greatest fighter in UFC history by pundits and Dana White alike, is gearing up to reassert his dominance in the heavyweight division. His historic run as the youngest light heavyweight champion and a record 11 title defenses have only added to the legend that is 'Bones'. A three-year hiatus did little to diminish his prowess, as he made a triumphant return last March, securing the heavyweight title by submitting Ciryl Gane in the first round. However, a pectoral injury and subsequent surgery forced Jones to pause his career once more, costing him the pound-for-pound top spot.

Rumors are swirling that UFC 309 in New York's Madison Square Garden could be the chosen venue for Jones' return, though official confirmation is pending. As the MMA world speculates, Jones has been engaging with fans on social media, asking whom they would prefer to see him fight next, giving them a choice between interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.

The Interim Champion's Challenge and Fan Engagement

Aspinall, the interim titleholder, has made no secret of his desire for a shot at the full championship. Despite this, Jones seems non-committal about facing Aspinall in the near future, stating a lack of interest in the matchup. This has understandably ruffled feathers, with Aspinall expressing his frustration publicly. "Right now, this guy is playing games again, trying to dictate to the public what he wants and doesn't want," the interim champion told TNT Sports.

While Jones' camp remains tight-lipped about the specifics, the anticipation continues to mount. Will it be the seasoned Aspinall or the striking specialist Pereira who gets the nod to face the revered champion? As the speculation continues, one thing is certain: the return of Jon Jones will be a landmark moment in UFC history.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova