Jon Jones believes this champion could compete for titles across four different UFC weight classes. As one of the most accomplished fighters in UFC history and a frequent name in the greatest-of-all-time conversation, Jones is known for his sharp eye for talent.
Jon Jones believes this champion could compete for titles across four different UFC weight classes.
As one of the most accomplished fighters in UFC history and a frequent name in the greatest-of-all-time conversation, Jones is known for his sharp eye for talent.
And it does not take much to see just how impressive reigning middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has become.
Chimaev’s dominance has been clear from early on, but since then he has only added to the hype. The 31-year-old now holds a perfect 15-0 professional record, with nine of those wins coming inside the Octagon.
His most recent victory came against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319, where he claimed the middleweight title. That performance only strengthened Jones’ belief that Chimaev could go on to win championships across multiple weight divisions.
Jon Jones tips Khamzat Chimaev to shine in four UFC weight classes
Speaking to Red Corner MMA during a coaching stint in Thailand for ALF Reality, where he led a team opposite Daniel Cormier, the former two-division champion was clear in his belief that Chimaev’s ceiling is nowhere near reached.
The Rochester native went beyond backing ‘Borz’ to succeed in welterweight.
He claimed the undefeated star has what it takes to compete all the way up to heavyweight, including light heavyweight and middleweight, where he is already champion.
“I think Khamzat Chimaev can win at any weight. I think he is one of the top fighters on the planet right now.
“I think he is big enough to compete with heavyweights. I think he is still small enough to go down. I think he makes a great welterweight.
“I’d love to see him at light heavyweight. I think he’d do great against these guys like (Alex) Pereira, and (Magomed) Ankalaev, and all these guys.”
Jon Jones expresses interest in training with Khamzat Chimaev
Chimaev’s victory over Du Plessis at UFC 319 did not just catch fans off guard – it also earned him praise from ‘Bones’.
The two already have some history together. Jones, who has shared the Octagon with plenty of top-level opponents throughout his career, was clearly impressed by Chimaev’s performance.
“Real recognizing real, hope to train with him some time,” Jones said.
That training session has not happened yet, but the two did run into each other a few months later.
They ended up having a bit of fun with an impromptu grappling session in the street while Jones was visiting Russia last November.
Category: General Sports
