Khabib Nurmagomedov Crowns Jon Jones the Greatest in UFC History Despite Personal Differences

Khabib Nurmagomedov, widely regarded as one of the most dominant fighters in MMA history, has publicly declared Jon Jones as the greatest fighter in UFC history following Jones' retirement. Though Nurmagomedov and Jones never shared a close relationship, the former lightweight champion put any personal distance aside to praise Jones' legacy.

In a heartfelt message, Nurmagomedov acknowledged the impact Jones has made on the sport, stating on Instagram Story:

“My congratulations, legend. Even we was not friends but you are the best who ever do it in UFC history and you inspire millions of people around the world. You have nothing more to prove in this sport.”

Nurmagomedov, who retired undefeated at 29-0 with a dominant run in the UFC’s lightweight division, joins many in recognizing Jones’ extraordinary achievements. Jones, whose official record stands at 28-1 (1 NC), only has a disqualification loss from 2009 that many fans and analysts argue should never have counted. He became the youngest champion in UFC history at age 23 when he defeated Mauricio "Shogun" Rua and went on to defend the light heavyweight title a record 11 times.

After a three-year hiatus from competition, Jones returned in 2023 and captured the UFC heavyweight title by submitting Ciryl Gane at UFC 285—cementing his legacy as a two-division champion.

However, Jones' career has not been without controversy. His time in the UFC has been marked by several legal issues and suspensions, including being stripped of the light heavyweight title in 2015 following a hit-and-run incident and having his UFC 214 win over Daniel Cormier overturned due to a failed drug test. More recently, just hours after his retirement was announced, news surfaced of Jones facing a charge for leaving the scene of an accident.

Despite these off-the-cage troubles, Nurmagomedov’s acknowledgment affirms Jones' enduring influence and unparalleled accomplishments inside the Octagon.