Jon Jones hits back at fans' criticism of comment about Islam Makhachev

Jon Jones (left) with 'Alf' presenter Marif Piraev (right). Photo: Reproduced from Instagram/marifpiraev

Currently in Thailand filming a Russian reality show with fellow UFC star Nate diaz, Jon Jones had to deal with the wrath of the lightweight champion's fans (up to 70,3 kg), Islam makhachev, following a comment made last week. During the filming of 'Alf', a reality show inspired by TUF, both were asked if the Dagestani fighter can be considered the best of all time. Both 'Bones' and Diaz were 'honest' in their answers, with the heavyweight champion (up to 120,2 kg.) stating that he needs to of more time in the UFC.

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Jones' response angered fans. But on Tuesday (20), the UFC GOAT responded to the criticism with authority, stating that the person who questioned Makhachev's credentials was not just anyone, but rather, 'HIM'.

“I feel like the comment I made upset a lot of Islam fans, but what I was trying to do was translate Nate for the Russians. At the same time, me saying that Islam is a rising fighter — I can say that. Not many people can say that. I can,” the GOAT said. (watch below)

️Jon Jones explains his recent comment on Islam makhachev — 'I was helping Nate diaz's message reach Russian fans.'

“I feel like the comment that I made upset a lot of Islam's fans, but really what I was trying to do is to translate Nate for the Russians.” Jon Jones, who is… pic.twitter.com/6h3oZIHM4l

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 20, 2025

Although Jones is the greatest fighter of all time in the UFC, Makhachev is ahead of him as the best pound-for-pound in the organization's rankings. The Russian, who has successfully defended the lightweight belt four times, recently moved up to try for gold in the welterweight division (up to 77kg).

On the other hand, Jones has defended the heavyweight belt just once since winning it in 2023 and has been shying away from a title unification fight against the interim champion, Tom aspinall. Perhaps this inactivity within the UFC is responsible for placing him behind Makhachev as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the organization today.