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LAS VEGAS, NV – JANUARY 16: UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman interacts with the media during the UFC 246 Ultimate Media Day at UFC APEX on January 16, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC | Getty Images)
via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NV – JANUARY 16: UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman interacts with the media during the UFC 246 Ultimate Media Day at UFC APEX on January 16, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC | Getty Images)
The topic of pound-for-pound best in the UFC is a fiercely contested one. Every fighter in the UFC aims to top the list and be crowned the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world. However, it is easier said than done as there are hundreds of fighters on the UFC roster, including some of the very best champions currently active in their respective divisions. Jon Jones and Kamaru Usman are prime examples of the same.
After his stunning knockout win over Jorge Masvidal, Usman was viewed as the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world ahead of all-time great Jon Jones. Although this did not sit well with a lot of fans and pundits, Usman believes that he rightfully occupies the number one spot.
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Can Jon Jones topple Kamaru Usman as the pound-for-pound number one with a win at heavyweight?
In a recent interview on ESPN MMA, Kamaru Usman defended his status as the pound-for-pound number one.
He said, “I think you are correct. Majority of the world, especially ESPN, and those that really know sports are correct as well. They believe that I am the pound-for-pound champion and best fighter in the world. Now, let’s not forget, and this is no disrespect at all, Jon Jones, body of work, total, yes personally, I am a fan of the sport.”The ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ continued, “I believe he is the pound-for-pound. But I am not done yet. I still have a lot of room to go. A lot of fighting to do. But right now, in the present time, because I am active, I am fighting. Jon is not active. I believe that I am the pound-for-pound fighter on the planet right now.”
Jon Jones has been long regarded as the pound-for-pound king. However, since the last time Jones fought, Usman has fought defended his belt thrice, securing two finishes and one lopsided unanimous decision. Consequently, he has established himself as a dominant active champion at welterweight.
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However, if Jones were to come back and secure a win at heavyweight, he will most definitely catapult himself back to the top of the pound-for-pound rankings.
What do you make of Kamaru Usman’s reasoning? Is he the pound-for-pound best in the world right now? Let us know in the comments below!
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