During the broadcast of UFC 290, Jon Anik announced Jon Jones, the reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion, as the recipient of the 2023 ESPY Fighter of The Year award.

Despite having made only one appearance in the octagon this year after a three-year absence, Jones emerged victorious over fellow nominees Leon Edwards, Islam Makhachev, and Amanda Nunes. However, fans widely criticized the announcement. Expressing their discontent with the decision and even referencing Khabib Nurmagomedov’s famous line to underscore their opinion of the award.

Fans split over decision to name Jon Jones as ESPY Fighter of the Year

Despite Jones being widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, his victory in the Fighter of The Year category stirred controversy due to his limited activity and his defeat of Ciryl Gane, whom some fans deemed overrated.

Many fans were of the opinion that Islam Makhachev was more deserving.

While others made it clear, why they thought Jones was undeserving of the award,

The award’s seriousness was also called into question by a fan,

Ciryl Gane was also the target of fan criticism,

Fans were quick to use Khabib’s patented line to express their sentiments.

Many fans voiced their disappointment and suggested that it should have gone to another deserving fighter in the form of Leon Edwards.

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While some were pointing out Jone’s past as a reason to not give him the award,

The sentiment among critics was that the recognition was unwarranted, considering Jones’ history and the circumstances surrounding his single fight this year.

Nevertheless, Jones can earn the favor of the UFC faithful if he secures a victory against one of the greatest heavyweight fighters in the sport later this year.

Jones will defend his title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295

Looking ahead, a highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for Jones. The American will defend his heavyweight title against former champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 295. The event, scheduled to take place at Madison Square Garden on November 11th, marks Miocic’s return to the octagon after a prolonged absence.

The promoters are positioning the fight as a “legacy fight” for both fighters. As Jones aims to solidify his status as a two-division champion. While Miocic seeks to remind the world of his prowess as one of the best heavyweights in modern UFC history.

The outcome of this pivotal clash remains uncertain, leaving fans eager to witness the unfolding of this high-stakes battle.

Will Jon Jones further cement his legacy by conquering another weight class? Or will Stipe Miocic turn back the clock and reestablish his dominance among the heavyweight elite? Only time will tell, and fight enthusiasts will have to patiently await the outcome. Nevertheless, what do you make of the decision to name Jones as Fighter of the Year and the revolving general sentiment in the MMA community? Let us know in the comments section below.

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