Jon Jones as the 'GOAT' – Understand what makes the champion considered the best of all time in the UFC

Jon Jones knocked out Stipe Miocic in the third round by UFC 309. Photo: Instagram/UFC Brazil.

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The debate over the greatest MMA fighter of all time is as old as the UFC itself. But if there’s one name that consistently comes up at the top of this debate, it’s Jon Jones. The American, who won the UFC 309 last Saturday (16) in front of Stipe Miocic and denied retirement, he carries with him an enviable resume, but also a series of controversies that call into question his status as the greatest of all time.

With each victory, 'Bones' seems to raise the bar for the sport even higher. With a unique combination of size, reach, impeccable technique and an unmatched fight IQ, the American has built a resume that places him on a pedestal of his own in the world of MMA. But what exactly makes Jones the top contender for the title of 'Best Boxing Champion'?Greatest of All Time' (GOAT)?

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With 16 title fight wins, an all-time record in UFC history, Jones has built a career marked by dominant performances and spectacular knockouts. His victories over legends such as Mauricio Shogun, Quinton jackson, Lyoto Machida, Rashad evans, Vitor belfort e Daniel Cormier, in addition to his title defenses, put him on a pedestal that few can reach.

Another level, but…

Jon Jones was in court. Photo: Reproduction

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Jones' career, however, is not without its shadows. The fighter has already been stripped of his light heavyweight belt on three occasions, due to problems both inside and outside the octagon.

Multiple arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol and domestic assault charges have tarnished his image and raised questions about his character. In addition, four positive drug tests at crucial moments in his career have raised questions about the integrity of his achievements.

These controversies undoubtedly weigh on Jones' assessment as the greatest of all time. Names like Anderson Silva, Demetrious Johnson and Georges St-Pierre, for example, are often cited as possible candidates for the title of 'GOAT' (Greatest in History).

What makes 'Bones' considered the best of all time in the UFC?

Jon Jones defended the heavyweight title at UFC 309. photo: Instagram / UFC Espanol

The answer is complex and involves a series of factors that go beyond the numbers. Jones has an impressive record, with victories over practically all the big names in his division and, more recently, in the heavyweight division.

Jones' longevity at the top is another factor that weighs in his favor. The American dominated the light heavyweight division for years, defending his belt multiple times and imposing his fighting style on his opponents. His successful transition to heavyweight, with a dominant victory over Stipe Miocic, only reinforced his legacy.

One of Jon’s trademarks is his ability to adapt to any opponent. Whether he’s an elite striker, a seasoned grappler or a fighter with a devastating ground game, ‘Bones’ always finds a way to neutralize his opponent’s strengths and impose his own rhythm. This versatility makes him a real challenge for any coach.

But what does the future hold for 'Bones'? A new title defense? Tom aspinall? Alex Poatán? A glorious retirement? The fact is: it is difficult, inside the octagon, to say that the fighter is not the best we have ever seen…

Jon Jones' impressive UFC records

– Most UFC title fight wins (16)

– Most successful UFC title defenses (12)

– Most UFC title fights (17)

– Longest total fight time in UFC title fights (4:56:20)

– Youngest UFC champion (23 years, 242 days)

– Longest undefeated streak in UFC history (20)