Former Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum has kept himself busy this offseason, between training and working with head coach Jon Scheyer as Duke's chief basketball officer. Additionally, the Boston Celtics star has also worked with the Jordan brand, as Tatum is currently on a tour in Shanghai, China. While there, Tatum ran into one of the most decorated mixed martial artists in history, Jon "Bones" Jones. Of all fighters to compete in the UFC, Jones has won more UFC title fights than anyone, with 16. Jones became the UFC's youngest titleholder at age 23 and would go on to win titles in multiple different weight classes.
The two met at a special UFC Shanghai event and took a photo together, which was later posted to social media. Another former
Duke alum, Amile Jefferson, was also present, Tatum's friend and current coach with the Celtics.
Jon Jones and Jayson Tatum linked up in Shanghai! 🇨🇳🤝#UFCShanghai | Stream TNT Sports on HBO Max (via @JonnyBones) pic.twitter.com/DJMbXzynA5
— UFC on TNT Sports (@ufcontnt) August 29, 2026
While Jones is now retired and has not fought since 2024, Tatum, of course, will be back in action with the Celtics this fall.
Contact/Follow us @DukeWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Duke news, notes and opinions. Follow Mack on X: @MackBaltes
This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Jayson Tatum links with legendary UFC fighter during NBA offseason
