As Jon Jones continues to rack up wins it seems like more-and-more people are referring to “Bones” as the greatest fighter of all time. So, does the UFC’s light-heavyweight champ believe he’s done enough now to be considered the G.O.A.T.? Apparently not.
While speaking to the media this week, in advance of his fight tonight with Thiago Santos, Jones was asked whether he sees himself as the greatest. The 31-year-old star said this (quotes via MMA Junkie):
“I don’t feel like I’m the best ever,” Jones said. “I don’t. I feel like I have a lot to prove, and I feel like if I can retire doing the right things and continuing to win fights, then maybe I’ll allow other people to call me that.”
“Anderson Silva,” Jones said. “To me, he’s my best ever.”
There you have it. For some time, Silva was widely regarded to be the best fighter of all time. But in more recent years, it seems like the former middleweight champ doesn’t get tagged as the G.O.A.T. as often. Likely due to the fact he has just one win since 2012, although, the setbacks have taken place after Silva’s prime. A similar thing has happened to Fedor Emelianenko.
Near the end of Demetrious Johnson’s historic reign as the UFC’s flyweight champ, his name was dropped more often in G.O.A.T discussions. Of course, Georges St-Pierre has understandably been a constant name in these debates as well. Daniel Cormier has been a recent addition too.
For some fans and observers, Jones’ case for the G.O.A.T has been set back by his issues with USADA. But, if “Bones” continues to score wins over the coming months, those voices may diminish. After all, we’re talking about fighter who has no legitimate losses in 26 fights, and who has defeated many all-star competitors along the way.
First things first, however, and that’s getting by the always dangerous Santos at UFC 239.
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