In an interview with Kevin Iole in August, UFC boss Dana White proclaimed, “Jon Jones is the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world, period, end of story.” And it’s hard to argue against the UFC head honcho as ‘Bones’s resume speaks volumes about his GOAT status. With only one blemish on his MMA record because of a DQ over 12-6 elbows (which recently became legal), Jones has dominated the UFC with eleven successful title defenses of his light-heavyweight crown in 2 separate reigns!

However, there is one man who can claim that he bested Jones in a contest without an asterisk. His name? Zion Clark and he is no ordinary fighter. Now, as ‘Bones’ gets ready to return to the Octagon at UFC 309 against Stipe Miocic, he’s got another challenge from Clark, who is itching for a re-match against the undisputed heavyweight champion!

Jon Jones gets called out to “run it back” by Zion Clark ahead of UFC 309 

At UFC 285, Jon Jones returned to action from an over 3-year-long hiatus to take on Ciryl Gane for the vacant UFC heavyweight championship. In just 1 round, he dismantled the Frenchman and added another belt to his already impressive resume. However, there was one loss he faced that night, in a push-up contest with Zion Clark!

In a recent video shared on Instagram by ESPN MMA, we saw that Clark challenged Jon Jones to a push-up contest after he had won the title. While both men started strong, Clark’s remarkable strength was on full display as he even took off his sunglasses in the middle of the contest and Jones had to admit defeat loss with a handshake.

Now, in the comment sections for the video, Clark stated, “When we running it back @jonnybones”. Clark was born without legs because of Caudal Regression Syndrome, a rare congenital disorder where the lower part of the spine and spinal cord does not develop properly. It can result in the absence of legs or other severe spinal abnormalities. And his journey from wrestling champion to professional MMA fighter has defied every odd in the book.

While Jones has yet to respond to the challenge, Clark has previously mentioned ‘Bones’ as one of the main reasons behind his pursuit of excellence in combat sports despite his physical challenges!

How Jones inspired Clark on his MMA journey  

Zion Clark’s life story is a testament to his will to prove that heart, grit, and sheer determination can overcome any obstacle, even when the entire world may doubt your resolve. Born in Columbus, Ohio in 1997, Clark grew up in the foster care system and didn’t let Caudal Regression Syndrome dictate his goals in life.

Speaking to MMA Fighting, Clark revealed that his adoptive mother always stood by his side, and Team Bodyshop, the gym that trained champions like Bellator star A.J. McKee, is now his second home. It’s where he made his leap into MMA. And, like any champion in the making, Clark found inspiration in his idols—two legends who later became his friends: Jon Jones and Jordan Burroughs.

Once untouchable idol, Clark confessed, “I was a young kid and he (Jones) was the youngest champion. It was just something to idolize. Him and Jordan Burroughs, they just instilled something in me. Now, later down the line, I can just call both of them on the phone and ask for advice or talk to them about life.”

As he now sets his sights on a potential ‘pushups rematch’ with the UFC heavyweight champion, it’s clear that Clark’s journey is far from over. While Jon Jones remains an icon in the world of MMA, Clark has shown that greatness comes in many forms. His determination, heart, and drive to constantly improve serve as a reminder that no challenge is too great when backed by an unbreakable will! What are your thoughts on Zion Clark’s story and his challenge to Jon Jones? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!