Islam Makhachev delivered another standout performance with a win over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, yet Dana White, the CEO of UFC, still regards Jon Jones as the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the industry. While White acknowledged Makhachev’s skills, he believes that as long as Jones maintains his dominance, Makhachev will hold the second spot.
White praised Makhachev’s abilities and legacy but pointed out that it wouldn’t be right to overshadow Jones, who boasts an undefeated record and has triumphed in various weight classes. Despite Makhachev’s active participation, White highlighted Jones’s return after a three-year break and his success in a higher weight category.
White reiterated his faith in Jones’s superiority, highlighting his achievements in both light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, including a swift win over Ciryl Gane for the UFC heavyweight championship. Even though Makhachev’s recent victory against Poirier was remarkable, White emphasized that Jones’s career accomplishments outweigh Makhachev’s.
Jones responded positively to White’s comments, expressing gratitude for the acknowledgment from such a significant figure in the UFC. White’s consistent support for Jones as the top pound-for-pound fighter globally cements Jones’s status as one of the premier fighters in any combat sport.
