Jon Jones (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

Recently it was announced that Jon Jones will be eligible to fight again, as early as October 28th, but the speculation continues as to who the former champ will face.

Jones was recently handed a 15 month, retroactive suspension from USADA, as a result of testing positive for a steroid metabolite last year. Jones denied knowingly taking any type of performance enhancing drug, and an independent arbitrator concluded that “Bones” did not attempt to intentionally cheat.

Jones’ manager, Malki Kawa, appeared on the latest “MMA Hour”. While doing so, he relayed that he believes either Alexander Gustasfsson, or current light-heavyweight champ, Daniel Cormier, will be next for Jones (quote via MMA Fighting):

“I think Jon would have a claim to fight for that light heavyweight belt,” Kawa said. “If he doesn’t, if DC decides to fight at light heavyweight before he fights Brock, then I think you see Jon versus DC. I think those are the two logical options, I just don’t know for sure which route they go.

“[Jones] wants his light heavyweight belt back. Daniel has both of them. Daniel is saying he’s going to wait until he fights Brock, so I don’t know what’s gonna happen.”

Kawa also said that he doesn’t believe Jones will be competing at the November 3rd, UFC 230 card in New York City. Recently UFC President Dana White also said that the promotion is targeting the beginning of 2019 for Jones’ return.