Jon Jones, former two-weight UFC champion, heading to Russia for boxing debut talks

The IBA have opened the door for UFC star, Jon Jones, to transition into the world of professional boxing.

Jones, 38, has long been rumored to be considering a switch to heavyweight boxing and, most recently, voiced his desire to fight Francis Ngannou, 0-2, in a prize ring.

IBA President Umar Kremlev confirmed Tuesday that the organisation is actively tracking the situation.

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"If we are talking about a potential move into boxing for Jon Jones, these are the kinds of stories that interest us," Kremlev stated. "Jones in the ring against Daniel Cormier or Francis Ngannou, but under boxing rules, these are the fights that the whole world is talking about and waiting for."

Jones is expected to attend the IBA's Bare Knuckle tournament in Russia next month where is expected to speak to Kremlin about a potential boxing debut.

The American fighter previously held champion titles in both the UFC light-heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. Jones, who endured multiple run-ins with the United States Anti-Doping Agency, retired from MMA in 2025.