UFC legend Jon Jones took to Instagram to pay loving tribute to his late brother Arthur Jones, who died on Oct. 3 at 39 years old.
The former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion posted a statement honoring Arthur, a Super Bowl champion who played for the Baltimore Ravens after he was drafted out of Syracuse University in 2010. Arthur spent eight seasons playing in the NFL with his younger brother Chandler also joining him in the league two years later.
On Thursday, Jon posted a tribute on social media paying homage to his older brother.
“Arthur was not just a Super Bowl champion but a father, spouse, son, brother, everyone’s best friend, a gentle giant whose kindness and generosity knew no bounds,” Jones wrote. “He had a love for the outdoors, whether it was duck hunting, fishing, or riding four wheelers with his family, he brought pure joy, warmth and laughter to every moment spent around him. Arthur’s generosity extended far beyond his friends and family. He was alway involved in local charities and gave back to the students and the community with an open heart.
“His legacy inspires me every day. Our dad Arthur Jones Jr, me, Chandler, Arthur Jones IV, and the rest of the family are committed to moving forward striving to be the best versions of ourselves, just as he would have wanted. King Arthur will truly be missed, he’s gone way too soon, but his spirit will live on in our hearts forever. Rest easy, big bro, you deserve it, you did amazing.”
All three of Jones’s brothers grew up as athletic prodigies with Arthur and Chandler focusing on football while Jon competed in wrestling before eventually transitioning into MMA where he’s now widely considered the greatest of all time.
Following his college career at Syracuse where he was twice a First Team All-Big East player, Arthur was selected by the Ravens in the fifth round in the 2010 NFL draft to play defensive tackle.
Arthur spent several seasons with the Ravens where his playing time increased year after year. In 2012, Jones had 4.5 sacks and helped the Ravens advance to Super Bowl XLVII where the team played the San Francisco 49ers.
In the game, Arthur recorded a fumble recovery as well as a key sack on quarterback Colin Kaepernick that helped the Ravens secure a 34-31 victory.
“My heart is heavy today after the loss of Art Jones,” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “Art was truly a remarkable person. A dedicated teammate, a relentless worker, and someone any coach would be proud to lead. His love for life, generous spirit, and radiant smile left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
“He had a genuine gift for connecting with people, bringing joy to the locker room and beyond, and his presence was a source of light within our team and the Baltimore community. Art’s positive energy and infectious enthusiasm made him a beloved part of our organization. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with Art’s family. May his legacy of kindness live on, and may he rest in peace.”
After playing with the Ravens, Arthur spent the next few seasons splitting time between the Indianapolis Colts and the Washington Commanders before announcing his retirement from the sport in 2017.
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