Jon Jones admits Ilia Topuria was his only perceived GOAT threat before Gaethje upset
Jon Jones revealed that he viewed Ilia Topuria as the first fighter capable of challenging his greatest of all time status, a perception that ended after Topuria's loss to Justin Gaethje at the UFC White House card. Jones praised Topuria's skills but noted the defeat may serve as a beneficial learning experience. Topuria is expected to return to competition in early 2027.
Key points
- Jon Jones stated that Ilia Topuria was the only fighter he considered a threat to his legacy before the UFC White House event.
- Justin Gaethje stopped Topuria in the fourth round, ending the Spaniard's undefeated streak and two-division championship run.
- Jones believes the loss may ultimately help Topuria improve, citing his recovery and training progress.
- Topuria is scheduled to return to the octagon in February 2027, potentially facing Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett.
Background
Ilia Topuria had previously won titles at featherweight and lightweight, defeating Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira. His loss to Justin Gaethje at the UFC White House card marked the first defeat of his career. Earlier reports indicated the UFC was considering a rematch, though Gaethje expressed reluctance due to hand injuries and questions about Topuria's weight class viability.
How outlets are covering it
MMA Fighting and Bloody Elbow emphasize Jones's personal relief and admiration for Topuria's character, noting that Jones views the loss as a potential catalyst for growth. MMA Sucka highlights the specific injuries Topuria sustained, including a shattered foot and fractured orbital bones, and details his recovery timeline. Sportscape Magazine contrasts Jones's supportive stance with the critical views of other figures, such as the claim that Topuria was 'damaged goods,' while also noting Jones's own history with losses. All sources agree that Topuria remains a significant figure in the GOAT debate despite his recent setback.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the volatility of the UFC's top rankings and the impact of a single loss on a fighter's legacy. It also highlights the ongoing debate over the greatest of all time in mixed martial arts, with Jones's admission adding weight to Topuria's historical significance despite his current setback.
What to watch
Ilia Topuria is expected to return to competition in February 2027. His next opponent could be Justin Gaethje, if a rematch is approved, or Paddy Pimblett, if Arman Tsarukyan is given the title shot. Justin Gaethje's future in the division remains uncertain due to hand injuries and his reluctance to fight again in 2026.
- Jon Jones considered Ilia Topuria ‘first threat’ to his ‘GOAT’ status until loss to Justin Gaethje MMA Fighting
- Jon Jones Revealed Who He Considered a Threat to GOAT Claim MMA Sucka
- Jon Jones Reveals He Saw Ilia Topuria As A "Threat" Sportscape Magazine
- Jon Jones admits he saw Ilia Topuria as the first ‘threat’ to his UFC GOAT status Bloody Elbow
- Jon Jones: Ilia Topuria Was Biggest Threat to UFC GOAT Status Heavy.com
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