Jon Jones Mourns as His Brother Arthur Jones Passes Away at 39: What Happened to Jon Jones Brother?
The sports world has been struck by sadness following the sudden death of Arthur Jones, the older brother of UFC legend Jon Jones. News of his passing shocked both the NFL and MMA communities, sparking emotional tributes and renewed conversations about the bond between the Jones brothers. As many search for answers about what happened to Jon Jones brother, new details have begun to emerge about the circumstances surrounding Arthur’s tragic death.

Who Was Arthur Jones Before His Sudden Passing?
Arthur Jones was not just “Jon Jones’ brother.” He was a respected athlete in his own right, a Super Bowl champion, and a key figure in his family’s success story. Born in Rochester, New York, in 1986, Arthur’s journey from a high school wrestling champion to an NFL defensive lineman is a tale of persistence and discipline.
He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2010 after an impressive college career at Syracuse University. Over his professional years, Arthur played for the Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Football Team before retiring in 2017.
Here’s a quick look at his football career milestones:
Team | Years Active | Career Highlights |
---|---|---|
Baltimore Ravens | 2010–2013 | Won Super Bowl XLVII |
Indianapolis Colts | 2014–2016 | Recorded career-best 4.5 sacks in 2014 |
Washington Football Team | 2017 | Final professional season |
Arthur’s dedication to sports extended beyond football. He was also a talented high school wrestler, winning two New York state titles. During the NFL lockout in 2011, he even trained for potential MMA bouts with Jon at Jackson-Winkeljohn’s gym in Albuquerque—a glimpse into how much the brothers influenced one another.
What Happened to Jon Jones Brother: Details Emerge After His Death
On October 3, 2025, news broke that Arthur Jones had passed away suddenly at his home in Pompey, New York, at just 39 years old. The announcement was confirmed by the Baltimore Ravens, who expressed their condolences and described Arthur as “a bright light and an incredible teammate.”
While the official cause of death has not been confirmed, several reports suggest that Arthur suffered complications linked to a heart condition. According to early details shared by law enforcement sources, his pacemaker reportedly sent an alert to his doctor on the morning of his passing. Emergency responders were called to his residence around 11 a.m., but Arthur was pronounced dead shortly after they arrived.
Authorities have stated that he had a history of cardiac issues, though investigations into the exact cause are still ongoing.
These reports have left many fans reflecting not only on his athletic legacy but also on how unpredictable and fragile life can be—even for elite athletes.
How Jon Jones and the MMA Community Reacted to His Brother’s Death
Jon Jones’ response to his brother’s passing was brief but powerful. The UFC champion, known for his intense persona inside the Octagon, posted a simple message on social media reacting to UFC fighter Alex Pereira’s tribute: “Wow Alex,” followed by a prayer emoji.
During UFC 320, Pereira had just secured a major victory when he stopped his post-fight speech to dedicate a moment of silence to Arthur Jones. The entire arena fell quiet—a rare and emotional moment that resonated with fans worldwide.
Beyond the UFC, tributes poured in from athletes across sports. Conor McGregor, Dana White, and Tom Aspinall were among those who publicly paid their respects, describing Arthur as “a great man” and “a true inspiration.” The Baltimore Ravens also issued a heartfelt statement celebrating his energy, humility, and leadership both on and off the field.
Remembering the Legacy of Arthur Jones
Though his life was cut tragically short, Arthur Jones’ influence continues through his family. He played a vital role in shaping the athletic paths of both Jon Jones, the former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion, and Chandler Jones, another NFL star.
Jon has often credited Arthur for toughening him during their early years, saying he learned the meaning of resilience from his older brother’s discipline.
Arthur’s name now stands as a symbol of both athletic greatness and family unity—a reminder that success often begins at home.
Here are some key aspects of Arthur’s lasting legacy:
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Super Bowl Champion with the Ravens in 2013
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Mentor to his brothers Jon and Chandler
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Dual-sport athlete, excelling in wrestling and football
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Community supporter, active in youth mentorship after retirement
Jon Jones Brother Passed: What Comes Next for the Jones Family
As the sports world continues to mourn, fans and friends are awaiting further details about the medical investigation into Arthur’s death. For Jon Jones, who has faced numerous personal and professional challenges throughout his career, this loss marks one of the most difficult moments of his life.
Despite the pain, the outpouring of support from across both the MMA and NFL communities highlights just how deeply Arthur Jones impacted those around him.
While we may still be waiting for full clarity on what happened to Jon Jones brother, what’s certain is that Arthur’s story goes far beyond tragedy—it’s a testament to perseverance, brotherhood, and the enduring strength of family.