Jon Jones

ABOUT

Jon Jones, full name Jonathan Dwight Jones, is a renowned American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). As of October 2021, he is widely considered one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. Jones has held the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship and is known for his dominance and innovative fighting techniques inside the octagon. Born on July 19, 1987, in Rochester, New York, Jones has carved a notable career in a sport dominated by intense competition and high-level athletes.

BEFORE FAME

Jones's early life was marked by an interest in a variety of sports. He attended Union-Endicott High School in upstate New York, where he was a standout wrestler and also played on the school's football team. His wrestling prowess earned him the nickname "Bones" because of his lean natural build. After high school, he continued wrestling at Iowa Central Community College, winning a national title. His transition into mixed martial arts began shortly thereafter, and his prodigious talent quickly became evident.

TRIVIA

• Jon Jones became the youngest champion in UFC history at the age of 23.
• His unorthodox striking, use of creative techniques, and wide array of skills in wrestling, striking, and submission have set him apart from many competitors.
• Jones has faced controversy throughout his career, including multiple suspensions related to failed drug tests and legal issues.
• Despite these challenges, Jon Jones remains a celebrated athlete with a legacy solidified by numerous epic battles and title defenses.

FAMILY LIFE

Jon Jones comes from an athletic family. He is the brother of two NFL players, Arthur Jones, a former defensive lineman who has played for the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Redskins, and Chandler Jones, an outside linebacker who has played for the New England Patriots and the Arizona Cardinals. His father, Arthur Jones Sr., is a pastor, and his mother, Camille, was a nurse before passing away in 2017. Jon Jones has three daughters with his long-time partner, Jessie Moses.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Throughout his illustrious career, Jones has faced many notable fighters. Some of his most famous bouts include those with Alexander Gustafsson, Daniel Cormier, and Mauricio "Shogun" Rua. His rivalry with Daniel Cormier, in particular, has been one of the most high-profile in UFC history, marked by intense competition and personal animosity. Jones's legacy is also associated with fighters like Lyoto Machida, Vitor Belfort, and Rashad Evans. Beyond the octagon, Jon Jones has garnered associations with prominent figures within and beyond the UFC, often being referenced by sports analysts and celebrities for his remarkable skill and complex personal journey.