Jon Jones offers olive branch to arch-rival Daniel Cormier

Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier's rivalry was one of the biggest in UFC history. The two fought inside the octagon and outside the octagon during a faceoff, and had numerous exchanges during their media appearances.

It seems as though time heals all wounds for Jones as his feelings about his former arch-rival have changed. While speaking with Sports Illustrated, he mentioned that he's not looking to become a two-division champion just because it's something 'DC' already did.

He said:

"I'm not competing against Daniel Cormier."

'Bones' mentioned that he has a great deal of respect for Cormier despite the bitter rivalry they had throughout the years. He mentioned that it's great to see what the UFC Hall of Famer has accomplished following his retirement, saying:

"I've already beat him twice. I'm really happy for Daniel Cormier. I love what he's done in his life with his wrestling and broadcasting. I think it's awesome when a fighter can retire and use his voice and intelligence to do something that he loves, so I've got nothing but respect for Daniel Cormier."

The former UFC light heavyweight kings had a legendary rivalry and pushed themselves to be the best through their competitiveness. They are two of the most dominant light heavyweights in UFC history, so it would be an interesting sight if Cormier were to conduct a post-fight interview with Jones in the future.

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Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane set to headline UFC 285

Jon Jones will make his long awaited return to the octagon when he fights Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight championship at UFC 285 at the T-Mobile Arena on March 4.

Dana White made the announcement during his media availability following UFC Vegas 67, where he revealed that Francis Ngannou was stripped of the title after failing to come to terms on a new contract. He mentioned that 'Bones' is ready to go and that his heavyweight debut will be a title fight.

The former light heavyweight champion hasn't fought since 2020, when he earned a controversial unanimous decision win against Dominick Reyes to successfully retain his title at UFC 247.