Jon Jones vacates UFC light-heavyweight title on same day Daniel Cormier announces retirement
Jon Jones has announced on social media that he has vacated the UFC light heavyweight title.
He tweeted: "It's officially up for grabs. It's been an amazing journey, sincere thank you to all my competition, UFC and most importantly you fans."
The announcement brings an end to an ongoing feud with the UFC over money since May, when Jones expressed a desire to move up to heavyweight for a showdown with knockout king Francis Ngannou.
In a subsequent tweet, Jones confirmed that he will hold discussions with UFC about a potential fight at heavyweight.
"Just had a really positive conversation with @UFC," . "Sounds like there will be negotiations for my next fight at heavy weight. All good news, the weight gaining process begins."
While it marks the first time Jones has willingly relinquished the title, it's not the first time that he's lost it outside of the octagon.
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Back in April 2015 it was stripped from him for violating the UFC's Athlete Code of Conduct, as well as in April 2016 and August 2017 for failed drug tests.
Meanwhile, Daniel Cormier has announced his retirement after his recent defeat to Stipe Miocic - which marked the conclusion of their trilogy.
Taking to Instagram, the former two-weight world champion said: "Thank you all for the love and support. Not what I wanted or expected but it is what it is.
“To my team: I love you all to death, you've made so many sacrifices. I hope I made you guys proud.
“Salina and the kids: thank you for being my motivation. To all the fans: I love you so much. You guys push me to try and be great.
“To Dana White and the UFC : I have loved every minute. Thank you for giving me the opportunity. Been a helluva ride, huh?”