'You’ve been ko’d, flat lined': Jon Jones doesn’t hold back against Islam Makhachev

Dubai: Jon Jones has responded to Islam Makhachev's comments about his unbeaten streak, defending his record and referencing a recent failed drug test. Makhachev, UFC Welterweight champion, claimed Jones' streak should not be considered valid due to his past positive drug tests. Jones, however, pointed to the USADA's findings, stating that the presence of a trace amount of a substance does not equate to intentional performance enhancement.

The former light heavyweight and heavyweight champion further addressed Makhachev's friend and former teammate, Daniel Cormier, recalling their intense rivalry and a controversial match that was later ruled a no-contest due to Cormier's positive drug test. Jones also paid homage to his coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, and his late father, calling himself "a gift from God."

In a playful jab towards Makhachev, Jones said "You’ve been KO’d, flat lined, went night night," referring to his only loss via KO against Adriano Martins. Jones concluded by encouraging Makhachev to "keep chasing, it’s lonely at the top, Islam hopefully I’ll see you up here one day." Makhachev is currently the top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC, a title once held by Jones, who does not have a scheduled return to the octagon while Islam is reportedly targeting a fight in early 2027.