Is Islam Makhachev the Real Top Pound-for-Pound Fighter?
American Kickboxing Academy head coach Javier Mendez has thrown his hat into the ring when it comes to the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings. He’s firmly put forward that current champion Islam Makhachev sits atop the list, and he lays out why.
Why Islam Makhachev is ahead of Jon Jones
Mendez made his stance clear during a recent appearance on Hablemos MMA when speaking about the UFC rankings. “How many fights does Jon Jones have in the last four years?” he questioned. “If you said six or seven, OK. But how many does he have? Two in four years.”
The coach continues, “No, you need to fight more than that (for pound-for-pound best). If Islam were to do the same, I’d put Jon Jones at No. 1 – but he hasn’t fought as much.” If Makhachev were to maintain this level of activity then it would certainly change the conversation.
“If he had been active, then it’s a different conversation – but he’s barely fought. That’s why, that reason alone, I put Islam at No. 1,” said Mendez.
A Different Perspective
Mendez made his stance clear and emphasized he is not suggesting his fighter is the GOAT over “Bones.” “The pound-for-pound conversation is now,” Mendez said. “I’m not going around saying that Islam is the greatest of all time. I’m just saying he’s the pound-for-pound best right now. That’s all. I’m not saying anything else.”
What will be next?
Makhachev is set to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC 311. A victory would give him his fourth successful title defense. Meanwhile, Jones’ recent heavyweight title win over Stipe Miocic has many wondering what’s next for him and if he will face Tom Aspinall this year.
What do you think?
Who are the true top pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC today?