Jon Jones responds to Alex Pereira’s loss against Ciryl Gane

Jon Jones reasserted his claim as MMA's greatest of all time following Alex Pereira's interim heavyweight title loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250, held at the White House on Sunday. Pereira (13-4) attempted to become only the third fighter ever to win titles across three weight classes, but Gane (14-2) dominated from the opening bell. The Frenchman's jab proved too accurate early on, and he hurt Pereira in round two before finishing him with a standing technical knockout amid a barrage of ground-and-pound strikes.

Jones, who retired last year, had publicly campaigned for a spot on the historic White House card but was ultimately excluded. UFC President Dana White stated Jones had never even been considered for the event. The rejection sparked tension between the champion and the promotion, with Jones hinting at ongoing negotiations.

Following Pereira's defeat, Jones posted a video on social media wearing a GOAT (greatest of all time) necklace—a pointed statement about his standing in the sport. White had previously indicated he would crown Pereira as the GOAT if he defeated Gane, a statement now rendered moot. Interestingly, Gane himself, who lost to Jones in 2023, has publicly acknowledged Jones as the sport's greatest fighter. The loss leaves Pereira's heavyweight ambitions in question, while Jones's social media jab underscores the ongoing friction between the retired legend and UFC leadership.