In a post-bout press conference following UFC 307, Dana White inadvertently revealed tragic details about the death of Arthur Jones, brother of heavyweight champion Jon Jones.
While fielding questions about the evening’s fights, White was asked about honoring Jon Jones’s brother during the broadcast and whether he had spoken with the champion.
White’s response provided unexpected confirmation of circumstances surrounding Arthur Jones’s passing. “Most of you probably interacted at one point or another with Arthur. He was such a great guy,” White said during the media session. “And you know when somebody passes away like that in their sleep so young, not even 40 years old yet, it’s br*tal.”
The UFC CEO’s comments marked the first time the specific cause and manner of Arthur Jones’s death had been officially confirmed by the organization. White revealed that Arthur died in his sleep at just 39 years old.
White went on to discuss his conversations with Jon Jones following the loss of his brother. “I’ve talked to him a few times. I think that the conversations I’ve had with John, I think he’s handling it pretty well. You know, these things are never easy,” White explained to reporters.
The revelation came during what was otherwise a routine post-bout press conference following Alex Pereira’s impressive performance at UFC 307. White had been discussing various match results and future matchmaking when the topic shifted to the tribute paid to Arthur Jones during the broadcast.
Arthur Jones was known within MMA circles as a supportive presence in his brother’s MMA career.
