The pound-for-pound number one ranking remains a hot topic in 2025. While fans believed the debate was settled after Dana White declared Islam Makhachev as the top pound-for-pound fighter during the UFC 311 announcement, Anthony Smith has reignited the discussion by asserting that Jon Jones deserves the spot over Makhachev.
Smith firmly believes that ‘Bones’ holds the title of the pound-for-pound best, pointing to his longevity and success against three distinct generations of fighters. Unlike Islam Makhachev, who has experienced a legitimate loss, Jones has maintained an undefeated record throughout his career. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Smith stated:
“I still think it’s Jon Jones… He’s gone through 3 different generations of fighters and has continued to win. And again, Islam has taken a legitimate loss and Jon Jones hasn’t… I think you take them all and put them in a room, Jon Jones walks out.”
Both fighters delivered spectacular performances in their recent bouts. Jones defeated Stipe Miocic via TKO, showcasing his dominance, while Islam Makhachev secured a first-round submission victory over Renato Moicano. Although the pound-for-pound rankings remain a point of contention, Makhachev currently sits at the top as the lightweight champion.
Joe Rogan Clears Up Jon Jones’ $30M Demand and Retirement Talk
Fans were eagerly anticipating a heavyweight showdown between Jones and Tom Aspinall, but Joe Rogan recently shared a surprising update. Following Jones’ KO win over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, Rogan defended him as the greatest of all time, suggesting he doesn’t need to follow the usual rules. Rogan believes Jones should take 6-8 months or even a year off without pressure.
“Give the man all the time he wants. He could fight whenever he wants to fight. That’s Jon Jones—he’s the GOAT. So leave him alone. If he decides one day to come back and wants to fight Tom Aspinall for the heavyweight title, let him do it.” Rogan said.
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Rogan recently shut down rumors of a Jones vs. Aspinall super fight, calling the matchup unlikely. However, fans are still waiting for clarity from the heavyweight champ himself.
Also Read: VIDEO: Jon Jones And Conor McGregor Recreate Iconic 2014 Rolex Moment With “No. 1 And No. 2 Watches”
