- UFC. Tom Aspinall chooses his MMA Mount Rushmore: Where does he place Jon Jones?
- UFC. Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall just crossed a new line in their UFC heavyweight rivalry
Jon Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. Though not everyone agrees, influential figures in the sport, including UFC President Dana White and commentator Joe Rogan, have referred to Jones as the GOAT.
Jones' accomplishments back up the praise. The New York native became the youngest champion in UFC history and has remained virtually undefeated in his pro MMA career, with only a controversial disqualification loss on his record. After dominating the light heavyweight division, Jones moved up to heavyweight, weighing in at 270 pounds last year. Now, as he nears the end of his career, Jones is focused on securing his legacy.
However, recent accusations suggest that Jones might be 'ducking' English heavyweight Tom Aspinall, a rising star who recently knocked out Sergei Pavlovich to claim the interim heavyweight title. Fans are calling for Jones to fight Aspinall, but Jones has been firm in his decision to face former champion Stipe Miocic next. Some fans argue that if Jones retires without fighting Aspinall, his legacy could be tarnished.
Jones is set to take on Stipe Miocic, a fighter who was once considered the greatest UFC heavyweight of all time. At 42 years old, Miocic hasn't fought in three years and suffered a devastating knockout in his last bout against Francis Ngannou.
This has led many to view the fight as an easier challenge for Jones and a way to add a big name to his resume. Both fighters are expected to retire after the bout.
Michael Chandler is ive of Jones' legacy
UFC lightweight star Michael Chandler agrees with Jones' stance on his legacy.
"Legacy is not tied to a certain opponent... bet on yourself," he posted on Twitter.
This was in reference to Jones' decision to fight Miocic over Aspinall. Chandler's reinforces the idea that a fighter's legacy is determined by their overall career, not just one fight.