Jon Jones believes there is one way to solidify his status as the greatest mixed martial artist of all-time.
Jones, a two-time light heavyweight champion in the UFC, is regarded by many fans and pundits as the best fighter ever to step in the Octagon.
If not for his involvement in doping scandal in the past, there is no question he is the ‘GOAT’ of MMA, holding the records for most wins in the light heavyweight history with 19 and most title-defences with 10.
Two years after his victory to Daniel Cormier was overturned to a no-contest, he returned to reclaim the 205-pound throne by defeating Alexander Gustafsson in their rematch at UFC 232.
Jones continued to roll as he retained his title with a pair of decision wins against Anthony Smith and Thiago Santos respectively.
On Saturday, he will put his light heavyweight on the line for the third straight time as he faces Dominick Reyes in the main event of UFC 247.
New Weight Class
Jones will enter the UFC 247 headlining bout as the heavyweight favourite, with many fans saying Reyes would be a walk in the park for him.
A win this Saturday could likely force the defending champ to move up to 265 pounds.
Jones said this move is inevitable and he plans to win another UFC gold to cement his status as the MMA ‘GOAT.’
“In order to put a lot of this pound-for-pound or who’s the greatest conversation to rest, I’m going to have to maybe obtain a second belt in a different weight class,” he said at ESPN’s First Take.
“I think that’ll really set me apart from a lot of guys. The move is inevitable.”
“I’m only getting better as a professional. I think I’m at a place, I have the team around me now that can get me to that weight class in a safe and healthy way.”
“I’m excited for when it does happen.”
Most Dangerous
‘Bones’ declares the light heavyweight division as the most dangerous weight class, given the strength, speed, and athleticism of the fighters.
“I see nothing but good things. I’ve been competing against my brothers my whole life who are both bigger than me, both Super Bowl champions, and I feel like I’m ready for that lane.”
“Light heavyweight fighters, we are truly the most versatile while being strong, fast and athletic.”
“It’s the most dangerous weight class in my opinion.”
To this, Jones believed he will not have a hard time competing against the giants of the heavyweight class.
“Guys big enough to knock you out but still more athletic enough and agile enough to do some really extraordinary things.”
“It’s a tough weight class. In a way, me moving up to heavyweight could be easier for me cause I’m just used to a much faster pace of fighting.”
(Featured Image Source: Instagram/ Jon Jones)