Jon Jones has once again declared his intention to fight soon. This time, he insists, it`s serious.
The former light heavyweight champion and current UFC heavyweight titleholder (referred to as “undisputed,” despite questions) issued a long statement this week. He told his fans that his career story “is still being written.” This statement comes even though Jones hasn`t scheduled a fight since defeating Stipe Miocic in November at UFC 309. Critics note his apparent avoidance of interim champion Tom Aspinall, whom many consider the true champion and who is awaiting a fight assignment for 2025.
If this sounds a bit sarcastic, it reflects the common feeling that whatever Jones does next, it probably won`t please everyone. While respecting Jones`s past achievements (he`s already done so much), the perception that he and the UFC might be trying to avoid a major potential fight in the sport is understandably causing frustration among fans.
Need proof? See what the fans themselves had to say about this latest situation involving Jones.At UFC Des Moines, highly-touted prospect Bo Nickal faced his most challenging opponent yet in Reinier de Ridder, a former two-division ONE champion with significantly more professional fights. The fight did not go well for Nickal. De Ridder dominated the three-time NCAA wrestling champion in grappling and secured a decisive finish with striking.
As expected, the unexpected defeat of such a highly-promoted prospect generated considerable discussion among the MMA community.
Paddy Pimblett is known for significant weight changes between fights, and fans continue to question how the lightweight contender manages this without apparent repercussions.
Dwayne Johnson is aiming for awards with his upcoming film, “The Smashing Machine,” a biopic about Mark Kerr directed by Benny Safdie. There`s some speculation about Johnson`s acting ability in such a role, but anticipation for the movie is certainly growing.
Frankly, it`s puzzling to see non-professional individuals repeatedly agreeing to fights against experienced MMA fighters. The author admits they don`t know who these challengers are and have little interest in finding out, noting that many readers share this sentiment.
Percy Harlow