Maraji Johnson, commonly known as Death Sentence, has thrown down a bold challenge to UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. The street fighter, who gained popularity on the platform Streetbeefs, invited Jones directly for a sparring session, saying he would not hesitate to fight if Jones were present. This challenge surfaces after Death Sentence’s recent breakthrough in training, ending a losing streak with guidance from UFC legend Demetrious Johnson, regarded as one of MMA’s all-time greats.
Despite a tough 1-4 record in his street fighting bouts, Death Sentence has captured attention by boldly calling out Jon Jones, highlighting his desire to test his skills against the decorated UFC champion in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Death Sentence expresses readiness to confront Jon Jones in person
Although Demetrious Johnson advised Death Sentence to avoid challenging former UFC middleweight Sean Strickland, Death Sentence showed little concern and instead set his sights on Jon Jones during a recent interview. He confidently stated:
If he was in this room right now, I would swing on him,
—Death Sentence, street fighter
He further declared,
“F— it. Come to Charlotte and we can spar. The reason I haven’t talked s— about Jon Jones recently is because I’m going to focus on my opposition. But if Jon Jones was in this room, I would swing on him.”
Death Sentence explained that his previous grudge against Jones had faded, replaced by a strong ambition to prove himself:
“I could take him out. I don’t have a grudge against him anymore like I used to. I just wanted to beat his ass because I’m like, ‘Bro, I deserve what he’s got. I want it.’”
As he put it,
So, I don’t got no beef with Jon Jones no more. But again, if he was in this room and he wanted to run it, we can do that. It’s on him though.
—Death Sentence, street fighter
Jon Jones’ anticipated return and potential matchup with Tom Aspinall
Meanwhile, Jon Jones is reportedly in discussions to face Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion eager to establish himself as MMA’s top heavyweight after a swift knockout victory over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 last July. UFC president Dana White has openly committed to making the Jones vs. Aspinall fight happen in 2025.
White emphasized Jones’ confirmed return during an interview with street journalist Adam Glyn last month, stating,
He’s fighting. He will be fighting,
—Dana White, UFC CEO
When pressed about Jones’ return timeline, White added, “Yes. Absolutely.”
However, Jones himself sent a mixed message recently, replying to a fan’s sarcastic question about resuming his signature eye poke with a two-word response: “Next year.” This has cast doubt on whether Jones intends to fight Aspinall soon, fueling ongoing speculation about his future in the UFC heavyweight division.
The significance of this challenge and the road ahead for Jon Jones
Death Sentence’s public challenge adds a unique twist to Jones’ complicated path back to the Octagon. The street fighter’s fearlessness and willingness to confront one of MMA’s greatest have caught the spotlight amid Jones’ uncertain return schedule. As Jones navigates talks and potential matchups under Dana White’s guidance, fans and observers remain anxious to see if and when the UFC champion will step back into competition.
With Death Sentence pushing the envelope and the heavyweight division poised for high-profile clashes, 2025 promises to be a pivotal year for Jon Jones and the sport’s heavyweight landscape.