“Make It Make Sense” – Islam Makhachev GOAT Talk Destroyed by Jon Jones With Title Fight Stat

Jon Jones once again gets protective regarding the GOAT conversation as Islam Makhachev emerges as a new favorite.

“Make It Make Sense” – Islam Makhachev GOAT Talk Destroyed by Jon Jones With Title Fight Stat

Jon Jones questions Islam Makhachev's GOAT standing (via MMA Mania, MMA Fighting)

Islam Makhachev’s standing in the GOAT conversation has dominated headlines since his UFC 330 victory over Ian Garry. The Dagestani star set major UFC records at UFC 330 while extending his winning streak to 17 straight victories. He also became the fifth fighter to defend a UFC title in a second division.

Makhachev’s GOAT case also rests on his historic lightweight achievements before moving to welterweight. He holds the division records for five title-fight wins and four consecutive successful title defenses. He also owns 14 straight lightweight victories, further separating his championship resume from previous contenders.

Jon Jones has defended his GOAT status for years and has questioned fighters and analysts who challenge his position. As Makhachev’s case grows, Jones highlighted his 16 UFC title-fight wins compared with Makhachev’s seven. The statistic underlined Jones’ edge in championship-fight victories while the GOAT debate continues.

Hopped on social media and heard there was a new goat? I’m so confused make it make sense.

Jon Jones via X

Interestingly, Jones had already backed the Dagestani champion to defeat Ian Garry before UFC 330. He cited Makhachev’s wrestling background and ability to control where the fight takes place. The Albuquerque native also described Makhachev as one of the sport’s greatest fighters and a legitimate GOAT candidate.

Makhachev’s rivalry with Jones also extended to the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings during Jones’ heavyweight title reign. In 2023, Makhachev questioned Jones holding No. 1 after defeating Ciryl Gane for the vacant title. He argued that defeating an unranked champion challenger should not have moved Jones ahead of active champions.

Jones has repeatedly defended his GOAT standing, recently responding after Daniel Cormier backed Khabib Nurmagomedov in the debate. Jones explained his disqualification against Matt Hamill came before he understood the 12-to-6 elbow rule. He also pointed to his career largely being built around UFC main events and title fights.

Speaking of Khabib Nurmagomedov, many still consider the Dagestani legend the GOAT because of his undefeated 29-0 career. However, Makhachev’s second UFC title win has strengthened comparisons between them. Chael Sonnen and Dan Hooker believe Makhachev has now surpassed Nurmagomedov’s legacy.

Jon Jones’ GOAT standing remains questioned because of multiple failed drug tests during his career. His UFC 214 win over Daniel Cormier was overturned after a positive Turinabol test. Islam Makhachev does not match ‘Bones’ in title-fight wins, but the Dagestani champion is building a strong GOAT case.

RELATED
Dana White put on spot as Islam Makhachev confronts UFC boss about Jon Jones praise

Islam Makhachev hilariously trolled by longtime teammate after UFC 330

Usman Nurmagomedov is one of MMA’s most sought-after free agents after completing his PFL contract. The 28-year-old Dagestani star most recently defended his lightweight title against Archie Colgan at PFL New York. Nurmagomedov’s free agency has fueled expectations that the UFC could sign the undefeated champion.

Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov
Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov (via X)

Usman and Islam Makhachev have trained together since childhood under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s system in Dagestan.

The younger Dagestani previously planned to join the UFC after Makhachev retired, avoiding a lightweight clash. With Makhachev now competing at welterweight, that obstacle appears less significant.

Makhachev left UFC 330 with visible damage after five rounds against Ian Garry. The bridge of his nose, forehead, and right cheek were scraped, while his left cheek had a large bruise.

Backstage at the Xfinity Arena, Usman then hilariously trolled his longtime training partner over the battered look.

Everything hurt right now but it’s good kind of pain. Brother he barely did anything to you .. one to the body one to the head that’s it. You can’t go home looking like that. If your mom sees you like this… no way.

Usman nurmagomedov via Anatomy Of a Fighter

Usman Nurmagomedov’s free agency comes as Islam Makhachev continues building his welterweight legacy in the UFC. With the two Dagestani stars no longer competing in the same division, a UFC move could become more realistic. The possibility would reunite two longtime training partners on MMA’s biggest stage.

Also Read: