“Ilia Gets Me Excited” – Jon Jones Reveals Favorite Fighter from Current UFC Roster

Jon Jones terms Ilia Topuria as his favorite fighter on the current UFC roster and shows excitement over potential bout against Justin Gaethje.

“Ilia Gets Me Excited” – Jon Jones Reveals Favorite Fighter from Current UFC Roster

Jon Jones praises Ilia Topuria (via Bloody Elbow)

The fight between UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje is now set after the latter’s interim championship win at UFC 324. While no official date has been announced, speculation points to the UFC White House event on June 14. Both fighters are renowned for their striking, and their ability to deliver such high-level and entertaining performances has left UFC legend Jon Jones genuinely excited.

Topuria is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous fighters on the current UFC roster. His reputation has been backed by a dominant three-fight knockout streak over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway at featherweight, and Charles Oliveira at lightweight. These victories elevated him to two divisional championship status in a short period and established him as one of the best boxers currently in the UFC.

Gaethje has remained vocal in recent days about a potential fight against Topuria. He has hinted that the UFC is leaning toward the White House event for their lightweight unification bout. While no official announcement has been made, Jon Jones recently shared his thoughts on the matchup. He also praised the Georgian-Spanish champion’s greatness and highlighted the significance of this potential clash.

How crazy would that be? Sorry, Gaethje. Ilia really gets me excited. He’s just dynamite.

Jon Jones via Helen Yee Sports

Topuria has remained sidelined since his lightweight championship win over Oliveira at UFC 317. This absence was largely due to his recent legal battle with ex-wife Giorgina Uzcategui. However, it now appears he has returned to full-time training after news of the case finally reaching a settlement. His resumption of preparation signals that he is readying for a likely return to competition in the near future.

Topuria has been highly appreciative of Jones throughout his career. He was one of the few who supported the UFC legend during his stagnant heavyweight championship reign and untimely retirement. Topuria also highlighted the challenges Jones faced by competing at the highest level throughout his entire life. His recognition of these struggles reflects both respect and understanding of a fighter.

Jon Jones is undoubtedly one of the greatest fighters in UFC history. While his career was marked by controversies and legal issues, he consistently remained one of the most dangerous competitors in the sport. That mantle of elite striking and dominance has now passed to Ilia Topuria as he rises through the lightweight ranks. The potential clash with Gaethje will test whether ‘El Matador’ can continue that legacy.

Jon Jones hints at never fighting against amidst talks of UFC White House return

Jon Jones has been vocal about a potential return to the UFC since his 2024 retirement. While regarded as one of the greatest American fighters, he has faced criticism from UFC CEO Dana White. This stems from his refusal to fight younger contenders and extended periods of inactivity during his heavyweight championship reign. His absence from competition has sparked debate about his place in the UFC landscape.

Jon Jones opens up on his Arthritis problems
Jon Jones opens up on his Arthritis problems (via MMA Fighting)

However, a recent video showing Jones highlighting his severe arthritis problems cast doubt on a possible return. He later clarified that he has been managing the condition for a long time. The Albuquerque legend also revealed that the UFC was aware of his arthritis throughout his career. These disclosures led into his recent comments about potentially stepping away from competition.

I think I could be done… Maybe it’s just about doing it right and getting out at a really good time. I don’t want to be one of these fighters that wins some and loses some, can’t remember what your name is. I met a fighter a few years ago, he didn’t know what his birthday was. I’m far from that, and I don’t want to know what that looks like.

Jon Jones via Helen Yee Sports

Despite being inactive in the Octagon for almost two years, Jones has remained active outside the cage. He participated in a celebrity flag football game during Super Bowl weekend, showing off his speed and athleticism. The event highlighted his continued physical activity even as questions linger about his MMA future. His appearance underscored that he is staying in shape while his competitive status remains undecided.

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