Jon Jones’ long-awaited return to the Octagon still seems to be on hold. Months have passed with no official fight news, and while fans continue to push for a showdown with interim champ Tom Aspinall, Jones appears to be heading in a different direction. Instead of gearing up for a title defense, the undisputed heavyweight champion is reportedly set to appear on ‘ALF Global Reality’ as a coach alongside Nate Diaz. However, it seems that since becoming a coach, the pair have finally decided to end their rivalry with Islam Makhachev.

Both Jones and Makhachev have been in the news among the fans for quite some time now. The reason? To decide who the number one Pound 4 Pound fighter at the moment is. Many experts have come out and shown their support for the Dagestani champion. Not only has Makahchev been active, but he has also defeated some elite fighters to retain his belt. ‘Bones,’ on the other hand, was fairly inactive before he defended his belt against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. Even UFC CEO Dana White went on to say during one of his interviews, “For anyone to call Islam the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world when Jon Jones is still f*cking fighting is nuts.”

But it seems Jones has slowly started recognizing the greatness of the 33-year-old fighter. He, along with Nate Diaz, was recently heard speaking highly of the lightweight kingpin. MMA Squad shared a video on their YouTube channel, and it seems ‘Bones’ has been quite impressed with the Dagestani champion.

Jones said, ‘He’s talking about Islam. He’s saying that he’s a little new in the sport still. But he has a big future ahead.” Jones further pointed out that staying at the top for a long period of time allows the opponents to analyze his fighting style. However, in Makhachev’s case, he has been able to counter all such threats in his career so far. Diaz also had his share of problems with Makhachev when he interrupted his UFC 311 press conference.

Diaz also had his share of problems with Makhachev when he interrupted his UFC 311 press conference. However, Diaz also acknowledged what the champion has been able to achieve and said, “And then they are yelling at you, and you are like, you know, are starting to me?” When it comes to consistency in MMA, few names carry as much weight as Jon Jones.

Throughout his storied career, Jones has delivered dominant performances time and time again, earning his place in the conversation as the greatest of all time. Yet, despite his accolades, the MMA community remains split. While he might have appreciated Makhachev recently, ‘Bones’ did find time to mock just a few months back. 

Jon Jones reminded Islam Makhachev and others about his greatness

The pound-for-pound (P4P) debate in MMA has always sparked heated discussions, and Jon Jones remains a central figure in that conversation. Many argue that Jones deserves the top spot, pointing to his unmatched résumé, including the fact that he has as many title defenses as Islam Makhachev has total UFC appearances. That comparison alone speaks volumes.

Remarkably, Jones now holds more title defenses than all current UFC champions combined. It’s a staggering reminder of his longevity, dominance, and why so many still view him as the true P4P king. 

Jones took to Instagram to showcase his career accomplishments, proudly posting the numbers that underscore his dominance in the sport. Not long after, former rival Vitor Belfort shared Jones’ post on his own Instagram story, adding a caption filled with respect: “@Jonnybones, everything has levels. You are definitely on another level. Glory to God.”

The heavyweight champion, in turn, acknowledged the gesture by reposting Belfort’s story and adding a simple handshake emoji. ‘Bones’ recent stats have served as a powerful reminder that there are levels to this game and why many still refer to him as the GOAT of the UFC.

Even though he currently sits at No. 3 in the pound-for-pound rankings, Jones has shown no signs of frustration, appearing content with his place. So, who do you think is the greatest fighter of the current time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.