Dana White, the UFC president, has long proclaimed Jon Jones as the pound-for-pound (P4P) best fighter in mixed martial arts (MMA). Despite the current rankings placing Islam Makhachev at #1 and Alex Pereira at #2, White remains steadfast in his belief that “you can’t be that f–king stupid to think that Jon Jones is not the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world and the GOAT.” However, Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, strongly disagrees with White’s assessment.
Javier Mendez Challenges Jon Jones’ P4P Claim
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In a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, Mendez addressed Dana White’s unwavering support for Jon Jones. He acknowledged Jones’ historical significance in the sport, stating, “Can you say he’s one of the greatest fighters? Absolutely. But pound-for-pound? Come on, you gotta be active.”
Mendez emphasized that Jones’ inactivity should disqualify him from the top P4P spot. “If Jon Jones was active, then maybe I would have a different opinion. But when’s the last time Jon Jones fought? When’s the last time he fought? I mean, he fought, what, in 2021?”
Mendez’s comments highlight a growing frustration among fighters and coaches regarding Jones’ prolonged absence from competition. Since becoming the heavyweight champion, Jones has not faced any new challengers, which Mendez believes undermines his current P4P status.
Dana White’s Support for Jon Jones Remains Unwavering
Dana White has faced criticism for his support of Jones, especially given the emergence of fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Alexander Volkanovski, who have held the P4P title at different times. Despite this, White refuses to acknowledge anyone other than Jones as the greatest of all time (GOAT). His unwavering stance has led to a significant divide in opinion among fans, fighters, and analysts alike.
The Context of Jon Jones’ Inactivity
Mendez pointed out that fighters must compete regularly to be considered for the P4P rankings. “You can’t continue to say you’re pound-for-pound [the greatest]. He’s not active. That, to me, is the only reason why I don’t put Jon Jones in the pound-for-pound.” This sentiment resonates with many in the MMA community who feel that active competition should be a determining factor in these rankings.
Since winning the heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane in March 2023, Jones has held the division in a state of limbo by not defending his title against top contenders. This inactivity prompted the UFC to create an interim heavyweight title, with Tom Aspinall competing against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304.
Stipe Miocic Readies for His Challenge Against Jon Jones
As the MMA world anticipates Jon Jones’ first heavyweight title defense at UFC 309, Stipe Miocic is preparing for his return to the octagon. Miocic, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, last fought over three years ago, suffering a knockout loss to Francis Ngannou at UFC 260. Speaking on the B/S Podcast with Jake Paul, Miocic expressed his excitement for the upcoming fight.
“It’s finally here. It was supposed to happen last year, unfortunately, an injury took it away, but here we are. We’re three weeks away. I’m ready, man. I’ve been pumped. I keep quiet. I focus on the task at hand – just worry about my fight. That’s all I worry about,” Miocic stated, demonstrating his determination to reclaim his title.
Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic: A Clash of Titans
The showdown between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic promises to be a significant moment in MMA history. Despite their inactivity, both fighters are among the most skilled in the sport. Jones, who is five years younger than Miocic, has been training rigorously with Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson and renowned jiu-jitsu practitioner Gordon Ryan. This preparation indicates that Jones may aim to grapple with Miocic, a fighter known for his striking ability, which includes an impressive 15 knockouts in his career.
Brandon Gibson, Jones’ coach, recently commented on the challenge Miocic presents. “He would be a nightmare to coach against because there’s no path to victory against Jon Jones.” This statement underscores the complexity and unpredictability of the upcoming match.
The Implications of Mendez’s Statements
Javier Mendez’s critique of Jon Jones not deserving the #1 P4P status sheds light on a broader discussion about the criteria used to determine rankings in MMA. The emphasis on activity and the willingness to compete is vital for maintaining credibility in the sport. Mendez’s perspective reflects a growing sentiment that champions must defend their titles and engage in fights regularly to earn their rankings.
As UFC 309 approaches, fans and analysts alike are left wondering: Will Stipe Miocic defy the odds and deliver a stunning upset against Jon Jones, or will Jones solidify his legacy as the GOAT? The anticipation for this bout continues to build, and the implications for the heavyweight division and P4P rankings will undoubtedly be significant.
FAQ Section
1. Why is Jon Jones considered the greatest of all time?
Jon Jones is often regarded as the GOAT due to his dominant performances, skill set, and ability to defeat high-level competition throughout his career.
2. How long has Jon Jones been inactive?
Jon Jones last fought in March 2023, meaning he has been inactive for over a year.
3. What did Javier Mendez say about Jon Jones’ P4P status?
Javier Mendez stated that while Jones may be one of the greatest, he shouldn’t be considered the #1 P4P fighter due to his inactivity.
4. What is at stake for Stipe Miocic in UFC 309?
Stipe Miocic aims to reclaim the heavyweight title and solidify his legacy by defeating Jon Jones.
5. How has Dana White defended Jon Jones’ rankings?
Dana White continues to insist that Jon Jones is the P4P best fighter, despite criticism and competing fighters’ accomplishments.
