In MMA, friendships can be as rare as a clean hit. Just ask Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones. These two titans of the octagon have more in common than fans would think. Both are in the GOAT conversation. Both have dominated their divisions. And both have a knack for making headlines outside the cage. But don’t expect them to be planning weekends together.
Nurmagomedov recently dropped a bombshell that sent shockwaves through the MMA community. He declared that he and Jones could never be friends. The reason is not that Jones did anything to him or that they have any beef. No, it’s all about loyalty.
“There was never any disagreement with Jones. He is a great fighter and it will be hard to compete with him. But my friend [Daniel] Cormier is in conflict and automatically he cannot be my friend. I am not friends with those whom my friends are not friends,” Khabib wrote on his Instagram Story.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s friend is none other than Daniel Cormier. And ‘DC’ and Jones have a storied and heated rivalry that still ranks among the top in the sport ever. ‘The Eagle’ prioritizes his friendship with Cormier more than forming new bonds with Jon Jones.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is sticking with his old buddy. It’s a bromance for the ages, showcasing his loyalty to those who were there for him. Jones and Nurmagomedov will have to admire each other from afar!
Jon Jones Has Nothing But Praise For Khabib Nurmagomedov
‘Bones’ has never been one to give compliments much. However, in the past, he opened up about his admiration for ’The Eagle’, surprising many fight fans. Considering their past differences over GOAT status, the heavyweight champion’s words carried extra weight.
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Jones painted a picture of respect that went far beyond the octagon. He praised Khabib Nurmagomedov’s character as a Muslim, his representation of Dagestan, and his business success. Jones further acknowledged his positive impact on the world.
“I love what Khabib represents. We’ve had our differences in the past. I love the way he carries himself as a Muslim, I love the way he represents his country. I love the businessman that he is. He just seems like a stand-up guy. He gives back to others, an admirable man,” said Jones via RMC France.
What makes this praise particularly interesting is their history. Jones previously disagreed with claims of Khabib being the GOAT. But unlike many fighter feuds, this difference never escalated into genuine bad blood.
Also Read: Khabib Nurmagomedov Reveals His True MMA Mission Was To Chase The Championship, Not To Hurt Anyone
