Jon Jones Names Ilia Topuria as the First Real Threat to His GOAT Status
Jon Jones has revealed that Ilia Topuria was the first fighter he genuinely viewed as a potential threat to his status as the greatest mixed martial artist of all time.
The UFC heavyweight champion has long been regarded as one of the sport’s greatest ever fighters, having dominated multiple generations of competition throughout his career. However, Jones appears to believe Topuria possesses something that could have challenged his legacy.
Topuria has rapidly established himself as one of the most dangerous fighters in the UFC. The Spanish-Georgian star has built his reputation on his knockout power, technical boxing and ability to finish elite opponents, earning widespread recognition as one of MMA’s biggest superstars.
Jones made the comments during an appearance on Prince Street Pizza’s YouTube channel, where he explained why Topuria stood out to him as a possible successor in the GOAT conversation.
“Honestly, I thought Ilia would be the first threat to being considered the greatest of all time. And then we saw what happened to him.”
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Jon Jones Explains Why He Became an Ilia Topuria Fan
Despite Topuria’s setback, Jones has made it clear that he remains impressed by the former two-division champion. The former UFC star praised Topuria’s boxing, power, confidence and conduct outside the Octagon.
Jones also highlighted Topuria’s motivation, suggesting that his decision to compete comes from a genuine love for the sport rather than financial necessity.
The two fighters share the same manager, giving Jones an additional connection to Topuria’s career. Jones indicated that Topuria was taking the right steps in his recovery and expressed confidence that he deserved to find success again.
Topuria’s defeat has undoubtedly changed the conversation surrounding his long-term legacy. Before facing Justin Gaethje at the UFC White House event in June 2026, he had won UFC titles in two weight classes and secured major victories over Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira.
For Jones, who built his own legacy through years of championship success, Topuria’s rise was compelling enough to make him consider whether another fighter could eventually surpass his achievements.
However, one defeat does not erase Topuria’s accomplishments or rule out another championship run. His response to the setback could prove just as important as his historic rise when fans eventually revisit the debate over MMA’s greatest fighters.
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