Off late, we’ve heard a lot about boxing vs. MMA. But what about boxing ‘and’ MMA? Ever seen them join forces? Well, in this particular case, the brief meeting, in fact, ended with a heartfelt hug! What are we talking about? Last year, on June 16, at the PFL 5 event in Atlanta, Georgia, Jon Jones met Nico Ali Walsh. The meeting was highlighted by a playful exchange between the UFC legend and Muhammad Ali‘s grandson. A year later, reminiscing about the eventful get-together, Jon Jones shared the footage on his Instagram story.

The UFC goat has yet to return to the octagon. After he defeated Ciryl Gane in March last year, the much-anticipated clash with Stipe Miocic came on the radar. However, he had to pull out on account of injury. On the other hand, Nico Ali Walsh rolled back from a defeat to Sona Akale last year. He defeated ‘The Slink Proper’ in a rematch at the Teofimo Lopez–Steve Claggett card on June 29.

When the octagon and squared circle met

Sharing his admiration for Nico Ali Walsh, Jon Jones wrote on his Instagram Story, “This video was several months ago, but man, what an honor it was boxing with Muhammad Ali’s deadly grandson.” It is actually linked to the post that Muhammad Ali’s grandson uploaded.

Ali Walsh reciprocated the respect. “There is no debate on who the goat of MMA is… 🐐,” wrote the super middleweight prospect. The footage begins with both Jones and Ali Walsh talking to a group of people. Then, jovially, the UFC heavyweight champion waves his right hand at Nico Ali Walsh, who promptly gets into a fighting stance. Laughter fills the background. Jon Jones, wearing a white t-shirt and black trousers, could be seen throwing body jabs and deflecting the incomings from Ali Walsh deftly.

It was just a plain, simple touch game, all done with smiles. Then, after a brief break, fans could see Muhammad Ali’s grandson showing his boxing skills by aiming at Jones’ body and then throwing right overhand. The encounter culminated with Jon Jones performing the legendary ‘Ali Shuffle’ drawing smiles from everyone around. The two finally shook hands and hugged like brothers.

Needless to say, the post has been receiving umpteen love and admiration from fans.

Jon Jones and Nico Ali Walsh: What lies ahead?

Earlier followers saw Dana White get into a huge debate with the press corps over the Jon Jones-Stipe Miocic matchup for late 2024. In Jones’ absence, Englishman Tom Aspinall stepped in and won the interim UFC heavyweight title last November. Later this year, at UFC 304 in Manchester, he knocked out Curtis Blaydes at the title defense.

Subsequently, he gave a loud call out to Jon Jones. Per available reports, Jones and Miocic could face off in the former’s hometown, New York, on November 16 at the UFC 309. The full card details remain unconfirmed. However, the Jones-Miocic duel has been projected to be the prime highlight of the event.

As far as Nico Ali Walsh is concerned, after the win over Sona Akale, he made it clear on chasing further boxing glory. His post-fight comments on future moves rather led to a brief online exchange with Jake Paul, amusing the fans. Although Muhammad Ali’s grandson has yet to enter the top 15 rankings, he continues to hone his skills with the aim of becoming a top contender and then subsequently claiming a stake at a title.

If the Jones-Miocic fight eventually turns up, who will be your pick for the win?