Jon Jones makes bold Islam Makhachev GOAT claim while backing UFC champion to beat Ian Machado Garry

Jon Jones has added a new twist to the MMA GOAT debate by putting Islam Makhachev alongside himself on the all-time list. Speaking in a recent interview, the former UFC heavyweight champion backed Makhachev to beat Ian Machado Garry and said the reigning UFC welterweight champion is already one of the greatest fighters ever.

The comments were later shared by FightFanatic_ on X, quickly becoming a major talking point among MMA fans.

Jon Jones backs Islam Makhachev to beat Ian Machado Garry and praises his wrestling

Jones did not hesitate when asked about the expected matchup between Makhachev and Garry. He believes Makhachev’s wrestling gives him a clear advantage against almost anyone inside the Octagon.He said, “I think Islam beats Ian Garry. Fighters with a wrestling base are so hard to beat.”Jones has built his own career on elite wrestling mixed with striking, so his opinion carries extra weight.

Makhachev has also made wrestling the foundation of his success. The Dagestani champion has dominated opponents for years and is now preparing to defend his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.

Jon Jones says Islam Makhachev belongs in the GOAT conversation

The biggest moment came when Jones was asked where Makhachev stands among the sport’s greatest fighters. Instead of naming several legends, Jones placed only two names at the top.He said, “Right now, Islam is one of the greatest fighters of all time.

I think the GOATs are probably me and Islam.”That statement is likely to divide MMA fans. Jones has often been included in GOAT discussions because of his long championship run and achievements across multiple weight classes. Makhachev, meanwhile, has strengthened his own case with title success in two divisions and one of the longest winning streaks in the UFC. Many fans still believe names such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva and Demetrious Johnson deserve to be part of that conversation. Jones’ latest comments add another opinion to a debate that rarely has a clear answer.With Makhachev getting ready for another title defense, his performances inside the cage will continue to shape how fans and fighters view his place in MMA history.