Islam Makhachev calls ‘bullsh*t’ on Jon Jones’ P4P ranking; downplays superstar’s incredible heavyweight feat against Ciryl Gane
UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev will not accept Jon Jones as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC. Awaiting for the next title defense. Rumors of the rematch with Charles Oliveira
Islam Makhachev does not accept Jon Jones as no. 1 pound-for-pound fighter ( Image source: L/R- Twitter )
Islam Makhachev has expressed his strong disagreement with the UFC’s decision. He will not accept UFC’s label of Jon Jones as the number one pound-for-pound fighter. In a recent interview with Daniel Cormier, the lightweight champion didn’t hold back, denouncing the choice as “unfair.”
During the highly anticipated main event of UFC 284, Makhachev clashed with Alexander Volkanovski. The battle carried the weight of determining P4P number one. Not only was Makhachev eager to claim that title, but he also had his lightweight championship on the line.
Islam Makhachev emerged victorious in a tightly contested match against Volkanovski. But it was surprising to see ‘The Great’ not receive the recognition he felt he deserved. Despite his triumph, Jon Jones made an impactful return to the octagon at UFC 285. After a three-year absence, Jones swiftly secured the heavyweight championship against Ciryl Gane.
Jones’ remarkable victory led to his placement as the new top contender in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. This decision didn’t sit well with Makhachev, who openly criticized the promotion’s choice. In his interview with Cormier, the lightweight champion candidly expressed, “This decision is unjust, my friend. How can Jon Jones be considered the best? He defeated an opponent who isn’t the champion, a contender without a belt, and they put him at the top of the pound-for-pound rankings…”
Islam Makhachev awaits next fight to scale the pound-for-pound fighter rankings
“The UFC has crowned him as the ultimate pound-for-pound fighter, but those who truly understand MMA know who the real best fighter in the world is”. Makhachev’s victory over Volkanovski stirred controversy within the MMA community, with many believing that ‘The Great’ was the rightful winner. While Makhachev awaits his next opponent, the upcoming UFC 289 bout between Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush holds the promise of a title shot for the victor.
Additionally, the highly anticipated rematch between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje is set to headline UFC 291. This would potentially pave the way for the winner to challenge Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title, now that Oliveira defeated Dariush.
In conclusion, Makhachev’s outspoken disapproval of Jon Jones’ anointment as the pound-for-pound king sheds light on the subjective nature of rankings in the world of MMA. As the reigning lightweight champion, Makhachev eagerly anticipates his next opportunity to prove himself as the true best fighter in the world.
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Neial Nishant Bhuyan
(1679 Articles Published)