When it comes to the world of mixed martial arts, few names resonate as powerfully as Jon “Bones” Jones. Known for his incredible athleticism, sharp fighting IQ, and controversial journey inside and outside the octagon, Jon Jones has carved his name into UFC history. But there’s another part of Jones that has always intrigued fans — his tattoos.
While Jon Jones isn’t covered in ink like some fighters, the tattoos he does have are deeply personal and symbolic. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Jon Jones’ tattoos, what they mean, and how they reflect the man behind the fighter.
1. The Chest Tattoo: Philippians 4:13
Arguably Jon Jones’ most recognizable tattoo is the Bible verse across his chest:
“Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
This tattoo sits prominently on his chest and is visible in nearly all of his fights. It’s a bold declaration of faith and a constant reminder of the spiritual strength he draws from Christianity. For Jon, this verse isn’t just a motto — it’s a source of motivation in both his career and personal life.
The verse has become synonymous with Jones’ identity, signalling to fans that his faith plays a significant role in his journey. Whether he’s stepping into the Octagon or facing challenges in his personal life, the message is clear: his strength comes from a higher power.
Meaning Behind the Verse:
This specific Bible passage has been used by athletes across the globe to express perseverance and belief in divine strength. For Jon Jones, who has faced both triumphant victories and personal controversies, the tattoo serves as a reminder of resilience, redemption, and his spiritual foundation.
2. Other Tattoos?
Unlike many fighters, Jon Jones hasn’t gone all-in on body ink. Aside from his chest tattoo, he’s relatively ink-free. This makes his decision to get only one, very meaningful tattoo even more significant.
In an era where full sleeves and intricate designs are common in MMA, Jon’s minimalist approach to tattoos actually says a lot about him. He’s intentional. Thoughtful. Focused on meaning over style. That choice mirrors his fighting strategy — precise, calculated, and impactful.
3. The Symbolism of Having Only One Tattoo
In a sport where outward appearance often includes bold tattoos and flashy style, Jon Jones stands out. His choice to keep just one prominent tattoo reflects discipline and simplicity. He didn’t ink his body for aesthetics; he chose a verse that defines his mindset and carries deep emotional and spiritual weight.
Some fans speculate that he might get more tattoos in the future, especially as his life evolves. Whether he does or not, the singularity of this tattoo only adds to its importance.
4. How Fans Interpret His Tattoo
To many American fans — especially those who share Christian beliefs — the tattoo has become a relatable and inspiring emblem. It’s not uncommon to see fans quoting Philippians 4:13 when supporting Jones on social media, or even sporting the same tattoo themselves.
In fact, the verse has become something of a shared mantra between Jones and his fanbase: a message of perseverance, redemption, and trust in faith during both glory and controversy.
5. Jon Jones: A Fighter of Faith and Flaws
Let’s be real — Jon Jones has had a complicated career. From record-breaking victories to high-profile setbacks outside the cage, he’s been both admired and criticized. But through it all, his tattoo has remained a constant symbol of who he strives to be.
It’s important to note that tattoos often reflect a person’s inner world, and in Jon’s case, his chest ink gives us a window into a man who leans on his faith — even when life gets messy.
Final Thoughts: Jon Jones’ Tattoo Tells a Bigger Story
While Jon Jones may not be covered in tattoos like some UFC stars, the ink he does have is powerful. His chest tattoo — Philippians 4:13 — isn’t just a verse; it’s a declaration of strength, belief, and purpose. It tells a story of a man who, despite setbacks and struggles, continues to push forward with faith as his guide.
For American fans and MMA lovers alike, Jon Jones’ tattoo offers more than just visual impact — it offers a glimpse into the soul of a fighter who refuses to be defined by anything less than resilience.