Jon Jones is a name synonymous with dominance in the world of MMA. However, it is safe to say that ‘Bones’ also happens to be the most controversial fighter in the sport’s history. Jones has collected countless ‘scalps’ across two divisions and has practically been a champion all his career. But is that enough to cement his legacy as the GOAT? Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s coach has some strong thoughts on the matter, and in a recent conversation with veteran journalist Kevin Iole, he made it clear that Jones’ greatness isn’t as straightforward as it might seem.

Javier Mendez said it best, “If anybody cares about winning and doing all the correct things to make sure they win, that’s him.” Sounds like the perfect recipe for a GOAT contender, right? But Mendez isn’t just handing out praise without consideration. The AKA head honcho has a crucial point, one that even the most ardent Jones fans can’t ignore. “The negative is basically, you know, you got caught for things you shouldn’t have got caught for,” Mendez explained, alluding to Jones’ repeated doping violations.

Many feel Jones’ legacy is being ‘shoved’ down the throats of fans by the UFC and Dana White, pushing for him to be crowned the GOAT. Does this push for greatness come at a cost? Can’t you ever separate a man from his past mistakes?

Jones’ career is, without a doubt, one of the most decorated in MMA history. His title reigns, his mental prowess, his ability to overcome adversity, he’s done it all inside the cage. Hence, should his out-of-cage issues be held against him when we talk about his in-cage success? Mendez certainly rides this bandwagon of thought. “Why is it any different for MMA?” he asked, pointing out that other sports have strict punishments for doping.

And let’s face it, Mendez has been one of Jones’ biggest critics, and it’s not a recent shift. This scrutiny goes back years.

Will Jon Jones ever escape Javier Mendez’s scrutiny?

In 2021, after Bones’ arrest on charges of battery and domestic violence, Mendez didn’t mince words. “It’s not unlike him to be in this kind of trouble… It’s no surprise to anybody,” he said, showing just how deeply entrenched Jones’ off-the-cage issues had become. Despite the controversies, the AKA head coach still saw Jones’ potential to turn it around. And yet, even as Jones continued to rack up impressive victories, Mendez has never been shy about calling out the fighter’s personal struggles.

Fast forward to last year, and Mendez’s opinion did not waver. His recent comments comparing the champ to Lance Armstrong is a perfect example of how Mendez is sticking to his point, “Jon Jones has been caught doping. That disqualifies him just based on that alone.” Is he right? “My valid point is… Lance Armstrong.” Mendez draws a parallel between Jones and Armstrong, both incredibly gifted athletes who fell from grace due to doping violations. Can you call someone the greatest when they’ve been caught cheating?

Let’s not forget, he’s beaten some of the best fighters in the world and his dominance in the Octagon is undeniable. But Mendez’s tough stance reminds us that greatness is more than just wins and titles, it’s about integrity. For sure, it’s a tough call. Fans love Jones for his skill, but does that love blind them to his flaws? Or are we holding him to an unfair standard?

What do you think? Is Jon Jones the greatest MMA fighter of all time, or do the stains on his legacy prevent him from ever claiming that crown? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!