The contentious legacy of ‘P4P’ is a topic of public domain for MMA fans and pundits alike. Ever since its inception in 2013, the claim to the fabled “best fighter” in the world has been challenged on several occasions. 2024 dings no different as the top contendership seems to juggle between Jon Jones, Islam Makhachev, and Alex Pereira. 

If we follow Dana White’s metric, then Jones’s status on any MMA accolade list is undisputed. The head honcho stated on the Pat McFee show, “Anybody who thinks Jon Jones isn’t the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world should never be discussing fighting. Period, end of story.” However, veteran UFC commentator Jon Anik has backed the Dagestani for the prestigious top spot. But what is his reasoning? Let’s find out!

Jon Anik states his reasoning for backing Islam Makhachev as P4P #1

UFC commentator Jon Anik has expressed a firm belief that Islam Makhachev deserves the #1 spot in the pound-for-pound rankings, even over Jon Jones. In a recent interview with Kevin Iole, Anik explained his reasoning, saying, “Islam Makhachev’s ability to secure that takedown and find a submission in his last title defense against Dustin Poirier is about as good as it gets. For me, he was already the guy going in, so I don’t see him losing that top spot.”

Anik highlighted his deep respect for the lightweight division, which he considers the UFC’s toughest weight class. He noted, “I’ve always put 155 pounds on a pedestal. I do believe it’s the deepest division. Part of the reason Ilia Topuria is getting Fighter of the Year consideration over Alex Pereira is because of the depth of his division.”

When discussing why he wouldn’t rank Jones as #1, the UFC commentator pointed to the champion’s recent inactivity, saying, “For me, it’s Islam Makhachev every day of the week. Jon Jones is in the conversation, but his inactivity largely takes him out of the discourse.” Anik has emphasized in previous conversations, including with Mike Owens, that activity is essential for top rankings, and that while Jones’ dominant win over Ciryl Gane left an impression, Makhachev’s accomplishments—particularly his win over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302—cement his place at the top.

Even Khabib Nurmagomedov’s former coach Javier Mendez has a similar thought process about the P4P rankings. He disagreed with Dana White’s outlook and came forward with his claims.

Javier Mendez comes forward with his P4P #1 pick

In a recent conversation with Red Corner MMA, Javier Mendez weighed in on the ongoing debate about who deserves the top spot in the pound-for-pound (P4P) rankings. The AKA head coach voiced his agreement with UFC commentator Jon Anik’s stance, particularly regarding Jon Jones’ inactivity. “If Jon Jones was active, maybe I’d have a different opinion,” Mendez said. “But when was the last time he fought? I mean, he fought in 2021. How can you be pound-for-pound if you haven’t fought? You have to fight; you have to be active.”, he added.

Mendez, who has coached MMA legends like Cain Velasquez, Daniel Cormier, and Luke Rockhold acknowledged Jones’ greatness but stressed that consistent activity is a prerequisite for ranking a fighter at the top. After winning the heavyweight title, ‘Bones’ has yet to defend it, leaving the division at a standstill. Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev, crowned the UFC lightweight champion in 2022, has been actively fighting top contenders and building an impressive legacy.

While Jon Jones’ return to fight Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 will certainly draw attention, it hasn’t changed the opinions of veterans like Mendez and Anik, who believe consistent activity and ongoing dominance are crucial. Do you agree with Anik and Mendez that Islam Makhachev deserves the P4P #1 spot over Jon Jones? Share your thoughts in the comments below.