Jon Jones makes bold Islam Makhachev GOAT claim while backing UFC champion to beat Ian Machado Garry

Jon Jones has added a new twist to the MMA GOAT debate by putting Islam Makhachev alongside himself on the all-time list. Speaking in a recent interview, the former UFC heavyweight champion backed Makhachev to beat Ian Machado Garry and said the reigning UFC welterweight champion is already one of the greatest fighters ever. The comments were later shared by FightFanatic_ on X, quickly becoming a major talking point among MMA fans.

Jon Jones backs Islam Makhachev to beat Ian Machado Garry and praises his wrestling

Jones did not hesitate when asked about the expected matchup between Makhachev and Garry. He believes Makhachev’s wrestling gives him a clear advantage against almost anyone inside the Octagon.

He said, “I think Islam beats Ian Garry. Fighters with a wrestling base are so hard to beat.”

Jones has built his own career on elite wrestling mixed with striking, so his opinion carries extra weight. Makhachev has also made wrestling the foundation of his success. The Dagestani champion has dominated opponents for years and is now preparing to defend his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.



Jon Jones says Islam Makhachev belongs in the GOAT conversation