Just two days after confirming his retirement from mixed martial arts, UFC icon Jon Jones has unveiled his next major career move, stepping away from the cage and into the world of business. The decision comes as Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, seeks to establish his “true legacy” beyond his celebrated achievements in the octagon.
Transitioning from Champion to Chief Performance Officer
Jones announced on Monday, June 23, 2025, that he has been appointed the new Chief Performance Officer at Ketone IQ. More significantly, he also revealed he has become a co-owner of the company.
Ketone IQ is known for its ketone ester drink, a performance supplement designed to provide sustained energy and focus without relying on sugar or caffeine. This partnership signals a pivot towards a health and wellness-focused venture for the former champion.
Jones’s Vision for His “True Legacy”
Taking to Instagram, Jones shared his enthusiasm for the new role, explaining his motivation. “It’s been great in the cage, but I want my true legacy to be the way that I conduct business, putting my best foot forward in everything that I do,” Jones wrote.
He expressed strong personal conviction in the product, adding, “Ketone-IQ has been a game-changer in my daily life, giving me more mental clarity, focus, and fuel to take me through each and every day. I believe in it so much that I became a co-owner of the company.”
This move marks a significant, and perhaps unexpected, professional transition for Jones, particularly after previously hinting at pursuing acting roles following his UFC career. It reflects a growing trend among elite athletes to explore and leverage business opportunities post-retirement, aiming to build lasting impact beyond their athletic careers.
Reflecting on a Legendary Fighting Career
Jones’s entry into business follows his official retirement from the UFC. The 37-year-old fighter felt he had achieved everything possible within the sport. While a potential fight against Tom Aspinall had been discussed, Jones stated it simply didn’t provide sufficient motivation for him to continue competing. His retirement decision, solidified after a period of reflection, was first announced by Dana White at UFC Baku and later confirmed by Jones himself.
In his retirement statement, Jones shared deep gratitude for his journey in MMA. He reflected on his career highlights, including becoming the youngest UFC champion in history, defending his title against formidable opponents, and connecting with fans globally. He acknowledged facing both immense successes and challenging lows, emphasizing how each obstacle contributed to his growth as a fighter and an individual.
Jones extended heartfelt thanks to the UFC organization (including Dana White, Hunter Campbell, and Lorenzo Fertitta), his family, coaches, teammates, God, and his fans for their unwavering support throughout his career. He also thanked his fellow fighters for pushing him and the mutual respect they shared.
Looking Ahead: New Chapters and Inspiration
While closing the chapter on his fighting career, Jones asserted that MMA will always be a part of his identity. He expressed excitement for new opportunities and challenges, particularly how he can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways through his future endeavors.
His bold step into the business world as a CPO and co-owner signifies a determined effort to shape his narrative and influence beyond the physical demands of fighting, embodying his belief that “The best is yet to come.”
