In a recent outburst, UFC President Dana White blasted anyone who believes that Islam Makhachev is the pound-for-pound best in the world, stressing that as long as Jon Jones is still active, no one can claim that title.
Makhachev, the current UFC Lightweight Champion, recently defended his title against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, submitting him in the fifth round. Despite his impressive victory, White was quick to dismiss claims that Makhachev is the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.
“He’s incredible, I don’t think he’s the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world,” White said in a recent interview. “For anybody to call Islam the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world when Jon Jones is still f*cking fighting is nuts.”
White’s comments come as Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, is preparing to make his return to the Octagon. Jones, who has undergone double surgery, is expected to return to training soon.
White’s argument is based on Jones’ impressive resume, which includes victories over some of the toughest opponents in the sport. “John Jones has never lost a fight ever,” White said. “He’s fought all the baddest dudes in the world.”
Moreover, White pointed out that Jones’ ability to move up to heavyweight and defeat the best fighter in the world is a testament to his incredible skill and versatility. “When you think about what pound-for-pound rankings really mean, he moved up to heavyweight and destroyed the best guy in the world,” White said.
In essence, White is saying that as long as Jones is still active and competing at an elite level, it’s impossible to justify ranking anyone else as the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world. “As long as John Jones is still fighting, active, and in the rankings, yeah, nobody’s pound-for-pound best fighter in the world,” White emphasized.
While Makhachev’s recent victory has earned him widespread recognition, White’s comments serve as a reminder that Jones’ impressive career achievements and dominance in the Octagon are unmatched. For now, it seems that Jones remains the standard-bearer for excellence in the world of mixed martial arts.
