Khabib Nurmagomedov, a legendary figure in combat sports himself, recently offered significant praise for fellow icon Jon Jones.
While the undefeated Nurmagomedov is consistently included in discussions about the “greatest fighter of all time,” Jon Jones` announcement of his retirement prompted Khabib to declare Jones the “best who ever do it in UFC history.”
Nurmagomedov shared his tribute to Jones, stating: “My congratulations, legend. Even though we were not friends, you are the best who ever did it in UFC history, and you inspire millions of people around the world. You have nothing more to prove in this sport.”
Both Nurmagomedov and Jones concluded their professional mixed martial arts careers without suffering a legitimate defeat inside the cage. Nurmagomedov retired in 2020 with a perfect 29-0 record, following four successful defenses of his UFC lightweight title. Jones ended his career with a record of 28-1 with one no-contest; his sole loss was a disqualification due to illegal downward elbows in a 2009 bout against Matt Hamill.
Jones quickly became a superstar, capturing the light heavyweight title at just 23 years old by defeating Mauricio Rua, making him the youngest champion in UFC history – a record that still stands. He went on to defend this title a remarkable 11 times. After a break from 2020 to 2023, he moved up to the heavyweight division and secured a second championship belt by defeating Ciryl Gane for the vacant title at UFC 285.
However, Jones` career has also been significantly marked by controversies outside the octagon. His initial reign as light heavyweight champion ended when he was stripped of his title following a hit-and-run conviction in April 2015. Although he later regained the belt by defeating rival Daniel Cormier at UFC 214, that victory was overturned after Jones subsequently tested positive for banned substances.
The 37-year-old has also faced charges for driving while intoxicated (DWI) on multiple occasions and was charged with domestic battery in September 2021.
Even Jones` recent retirement announcement this past Saturday was reportedly overshadowed by news emerging that same evening that he had recently been charged with leaving the scene of an accident.
