Former UFC fighter and current PFL Europe executive Dan Hardy has sparked an intense debate in the MMA community by stating that Jon Jones is “certainly not” the best heavyweight in the world, despite being widely regarded as the greatest mixed martial artist of all time.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, Hardy compared the abilities of Jones, Tom Aspinall, and Francis Ngannou while pointing out why ‘Bones’ may not top the list in the heavyweight division.
“I think Jon Jones is the pound-for-pound best,” Hardy said. “I think he’s the best representation of mixed martial arts generally that we’ve ever seen. I think he’s still evolving, which is terrifying. But is he the best current heavyweight on the planet? I don’t think so.”
Hardy suggested that the best heavyweight title could be decided by a potential fight between Aspinall and Ngannou. According to him, the current UFC heavyweight champion Jones, while incredibly talented, lacks the attributes to keep up with either fighter’s strengths.
“I think the winner of Aspinall versus Ngannou would be the answer,” Hardy added.
“No disrespect in any way to Jon. Current heavyweight champion, but not the current best heavyweight on the planet. Certainly not.”
Ngannou’s Power vs. Aspinall’s Speed
Francis Ngannou is a force of nature known for his knockout power, something Hardy believes Jones would struggle to handle. “There were times when Stipe [Miocic] landed [on Jones at UFC 309], and I think if Ngannou lands those shots, Jon Jones doesn’t get back up,” Hardy explained.
Similarly, Hardy highlighted Tom Aspinall’s unique attributes, saying, “The speed of Tom Aspinall would allow him to land punches against Jon Jones and Ngannou that both of those guys wouldn’t see coming and wouldn’t be able to stop. The question is would he be able to do that kind of damage to knock them out? I don’t know.”
While Hardy respects Jones’ unmatched fight IQ and creativity inside the Octagon, he remains unconvinced these factors would dominate in today’s heavyweight landscape against Aspinall or Ngannou.
Future Titles at Stake
Fans are eager to see how these debates play out inside the cage. With Ngannou signed to the PFL and Jon Jones recovering from injuries sustained before UFC 309, potential matchups feel uncertain.
However, a title unification bout between Jones and Tom Aspinall, the UFC interim heavyweight champion, appears highly likely.
Jones, who came back in dominant form to defeat Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, is willing to fight again under the right circumstances. “Bones” remains one of the most calculated and skilled fighters in the sport, but for now, debates about the top heavyweight continue to divide fans and experts alike.
Will Jones prove his doubters wrong and cement himself as the best heavyweight, or will it be Aspinall or Ngannou who takes that crown?
Time will tell.
