Jon Jones excited for Conor McGregor UFC 329 comeback: ‘I’m proud of him’

Jon Jones has emerged as an unlikely admirer of Conor McGregor's return to the octagon. With McGregor set to fight Max Holloway in the welterweight main event of UFC 329 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas next Saturday—his first bout since 2021—Jones expressed genuine respect for the Irishman's decision to compete again despite his massive wealth and success.

Both fighters dominated the UFC during the sport's explosive growth in the 2010s. McGregor became a global superstar, breaking box office records and capturing titles across two weight classes, while Jones compiled an undefeated record punctuated by victories over numerous legends and elite contenders. Though Jones has since stepped back from active competition, he remains invested in the sport and particularly impressed by McGregor's comeback motivation.

"Conor doesn't need to fight," Jones told Red Corner MMA. "He has everything, and I respect the fact that he's coming back to fight so much because it shows that he's a fighter in his heart." Jones, who opted to retire at an elite level, sees McGregor's return as proof of the Irishman's genuine passion for combat sports rather than mere financial necessity.

Beyond athletic accomplishment, Jones credited McGregor's entrepreneurial ventures—particularly his Proper 12 whisky brand—as an inspiration to the fighter community. "The businessman that he's been for our sport, he teaches fighters that we can be more than just fighters," Jones said. Both have faced public controversies and personal struggles, but Jones views McGregor's resilience as exemplary. "He always gets back on his feet, which is a huge example to so many out there."