The UFC community has been shaken by devastating news. Arthur Jones, the older brother of Jon Jones and a Super Bowl-winning defensive tackle, has passed away at the age of 39. While the cause of Jones’ death remains unknown, former UFC two-division champion Jon Jones has yet to comment on the devastating news of his brother’s passing. What we do know for now is that the tragic loss has left fighters, fans, and colleagues reflecting on Arthur’s impact both inside and outside of sport.

The ripple effect of his passing has been felt across both the NFL and UFC. The UFC issued a sorrowful statement, expressing its condolences to Jones’ family and those closest to him. Dana White began the reactions with a prayer emoji comment ‘🙏🏼’ on the post. It was followed by Tony Ferguson‘s ‘🕊️’ and Derek Brunson‘s sincere words, “A good dude 🙏🏾.”

Former fighter Josh Thomson added, “Truly sad to see someone’s life gone so soon. Our sincere condolences to you, Jon Jones, and the entire Jones family. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼” These small but impactful comments conveyed how abrupt and strongly felt the loss truly is. Some tributes, however, went beyond brief gestures and spoke to the man Arthur Jones was. Conor McGregor expressed his sadness, saying, “Very sad to hear this news. Arthur was a great man, a friendly giant! Godspeed, Arthur Jones 🙏❤️.”

Longtime UFC commentator Jon Anik echoed the sentiment with a poignant note: “This is profoundly sad. As you can see from the outpouring of love, Arthur touched so many lives in our UFC community with his warmth and that smile. My heart is heavy for Jon and the entire Jones family.” Their words highlighted Jones’s ability to connect with people far beyond his accomplishments in football.

Arthur Jones’ career was characterized by toughness and achievements. A two-time First-Team All-Big East pick at Syracuse, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2010 and soon established himself as a dependable presence on their defensive line. His most memorable moment came during Super Bowl XLVII, when he sacked Colin Kaepernick and recovered a fumble in the Ravens’ dramatic 34-31 win. Later stops with the Colts and Washington extended his seven-year NFL career, which ended with 173 tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles. More than the numbers, he gained admiration for his resilience and spirit, a reputation that carried far beyond the field.

For Jon Jones, who has carried the weight of MMA superstardom for over a decade, this setback is very personal. Known for his bond with his brothers, Jon often credited Arthur and Chandler for shaping his competitive edge and resilience. Their accomplishments in their respective sports were a source of mutual pride, and the tributes pouring in from around the fight world highlight how strongly Arthur’s presence was linked to Jon’s journey as well.

Jon Jones’ old tribute to brother Arthur Jones comes to light

The tributes pouring in today echo feelings Jon Jones himself once expressed about Arthur more than a decade ago. Long before this tragic loss, ‘Bones’ had spoken with pride about his older brother’s skills, imagining how Arthur’s passion for football and athleticism may have translated into the UFC. His words from 2012 have now resurfaced, adding weight to memories of Arthur’s character and presence.

Back then, Jon Jones regarded Arthur Jones as someone who would not shy away from difficulties outside of football, suggesting that if he ever decided to try MMA, he could thrive. “Arthur wouldn’t hesitate to pursue mixed martial arts,” Jon said, adding that the discipline needed to make the heavyweight limit would have made him mentally stronger and faster.

He even thought Arthur could have become a serious contender, perhaps even a champion. That belief says much about Jon’s admiration for his brother’s strength and mindset. He said, “He would be faster than ever and mentally a stronger person. I think he would make a great contender, if not champion, in the UFC.” While Jon’s views highlight their relationship, Arthur’s legacy continues in the NFL community. While Jon’s reflections highlight their bond, Arthur’s legacy also lives on in the NFL community.

The Baltimore Ravens, with whom he earned his proudest moments, released a statement through General Manager Eric DeCosta. Remembering him as a man whose smile and positivity uplifted everyone he met, DeCosta called Arthur “a gift to everyone he encountered.” He wrote, “We are terribly saddened to learn of Arthur Jones’ sudden passing. Arthur’s presence was a gift to everyone he encountered. His big, bright smile, infectious energy and eternal positivity created a presence that continuously uplifted others.”

His sentiments encapsulated what so many people felt: Arthur’s influence extended beyond sports, leaving a legacy of kindness and resilience. We at EssentiallySports would like to share our deepest condolences with the family of Arthur Jones and those affected by this tragic loss.