UFC legend Jon Jones breaks silence after tragic death of his ex-NFL star brother Arthur at 39

Jon Jones has spoken out for the first time following the shock death of his brother, former NFL star Arthur Jones, at the age of 39. 

The Baltimore Ravens announced last Friday that the Super Bowl-winning defensive lineman had died at his home in Syracuse, New York. He is the older brother of UFC legend Jon Jones and ex-NFL star Chandler Jones.

According to reports, the 39-year-old had a pre-existing heart condition and his pacemaker went off, automatically alerting his doctor. But Jones had already passed away by the time emergency services arrived on the scene.

Arthur is a year older than the UFC legend, who remained quiet on the family tragedy until Monday night.

Jon Jones posted a statement on social media, outlining details of a funeral service to celebrate the life of his brother.

But he also said the family 'kindly ask that those who knew and loved Arthur join us in paying their respects.'

'Out of respect for our family’s privacy during this difficult time, we ask that attendance be limited to close friends, family, and those who shared a meaningful connection with Arthur,' Jones wrote.

The funeral will be held in Binghamton, New York, on Saturday October 11. 

After news broke of Arthur's death, tributes poured in from NFL fans, Ravens supporters and MMA figures including Conor McGregor.

'Very sad to hear this news, Arthur was a great man, a friendly giant! God speed Arthur Jones,' the Irishman wrote on X.

The UFC, meanwhile, said it was 'saddened to hear about the passing of Arthur Jones. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and loved ones.'

On Saturday night, at UFC 320 in Las Vegas, Alex Pereira led a tribute to Jones' late brother after clinching the light heavyweight title.

In his post-fight interview, the 36-year-old opted to focus on the Jones family, rather than his own victory.

Speaking to Joe Rogan in the Octagon, Pereira urged the crowd to hold a minute's silence in honor of Arthur. 

'I had a whole speech prepared tonight, I talked it over with my team,' Pereira said. 'We got some news recently, something’s happened, I want to give my respect to Jon Jones and his family. 

'I want to ask everyone here and at home to take a moment of silence for his brother.'

Jones reacted to Pereira's touching gesture on social media, with the three-time UFC champion writing 'Wow Alex' and adding a prayer emoji.