‘He’s Wiped Out a Division’ Jon Jones Coach Backing UFC Star to Dominate at Heavyweight

The debut of Jon Jones at heavyweight is one of the most anticipated events of 2021 for the MMA community. ‘Bones’ has become the youngest ever champion in the UFC and since then has created multiple records. He has never lost a fight as a champion.

In 2020, after yet another successful title defense, ‘Bones’ relinquished his light heavyweight title and announced his move to the heavyweight division.

Jones’s coaches are eagerly anticipating their pupil’s bow at heavyweight. They believe that he has all the skills it takes to dominate the weight class. There is no opponent yet, as the UFC is yet to announce a date between champion Stipe Miocic and Francis Ngannou. It’s rumored that Jones would fight the winner of the fight.

Read: From Steak to Pizza – the Cheat Meals of Stipe Miocic Colby Covington and Other UFC Fighters 

Making the leap to 265 pounds

Speaking to MMA Fighting, coach Mike Winkeljohn gave his thoughts on the move. The jump from 205 to the heavyweight limit represents a significant difference in weight, with most heavyweight’s cutting to make the weight.

“You’re not just going up a division, you might be going up by like 50 pounds sometimes,” Winkeljohn said. “These guys are big. It’s not like going up 15 pounds like everybody else. It can be a big jump. So that makes a big difference.”

“Jon has always done very well [against heavyweights],” Winkeljohn continued. “He’s always had the ability to change up things and as far as fight IQ, Jon’s that guy. If he’s fighting a guy like Andrei Arlovski with a big overhand, he knows how to nullify it. If he’s fighting a guy like Alistair Overeem, who throws a big hook into a knee to the body, he knows how to avoid that.”

Jon Jones has the IQ to be UFC Heavyweight Champion

Jones has fought the best of the best during his career and faced all kinds of styles. His coach believes that ‘Bones’ ability to adapt his fighting style to each opponent will play a key role. 

“He’s wiped out a division, so it makes sense [to go to heavyweight],” Winkeljohn concluded. “I put money on Jon going to heavyweight and dominating there, too.” 

Jon Jones has been patiently waiting for his UFC heavyweight debut. He has been keeping himself busy in the gym and seems to have focused on getting ready for 265.

Dana White recently announced that Jones would not be getting the title shot before Francis Ngannou. With the potential rematch scheduled for March/April, we may only see Jones return in the second half of 2021.

Read: Dana White Makes a Huge Statement on Jon Jones- Will Not Get Title Shot Before Francis Ngannou