Islam Makhachev Criticizes Jon Jones for Rule-Breaking in UFC Career

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev suggests Jon Jones avoids taking responsibility for past transgressions outside the octagon.

Jon Jones recently defended his career legacy when Daniel Cormier, a two-time opponent, continued to question his status as the UFC's greatest fighter. Cormier has frequently cited Jones' multiple failed drug tests as a reason to exclude him from the GOAT discussion, particularly an incident before their scheduled rematch at UFC 200.

Cormier places Khabib Nurmagomedov, his former teammate and UFC Hall of Famer, at the top of his GOAT rankings. Islam Makhachev, also a contender for the title, has earned belts in multiple weight classes.

Jones responded on social media to Cormier’s latest GOAT comments, also urging Makhachev to maintain his current path. Makhachev’s reaction to Jones’ remarks was not positive.

Makhachev Responds to Jones' Defense of Past Drug Use

In a recent tweet, Makhachev addressed Jones’ justification of his controversial history.

"Jon, I’m not trying to diminish your achievements in any way. But your whole life seems to be tied to breaking the rules one way or another," Makhachev tweeted. "And somehow, you’re never the one to be blamed."

Jones had previously questioned Makhachev's claim to the greatest fighter title, referencing an early career knockout loss. Makhachev recently broke Anderson Silva’s UFC record for consecutive wins, defeating Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.

Jones has not yet replied to Makhachev's tweet. He is expected to support Gable Steveson at UFC 331.

Jones, Makhachev, and others continue to debate the UFC's greatest fighter. According to Jones, Makhachev still has significant progress to make before being considered in that conversation.