Javier Mendez, coach to Islam Makhachev, recently addressed the controversy surrounding Jon Jones’ continued reign as UFC heavyweight champion, contrasting it with the criticism Makhachev has faced after vacating his lightweight title. The discussion highlights differing paths taken by two of the UFC’s top fighters amid questions of fairness and inactivity.
Makhachev gave up his UFC lightweight belt, aiming to chase a welterweight title, while Jones, who became heavyweight champion in March 2023, has defended the title only once. Fans have voiced frustration that Jones should be stripped due to limited title defenses, especially when compared to Makhachev’s decision to relinquish his championship.
Mendez Explains UFC’s Focus on Entertainment and Opportunity
On Submission Radio, Mendez offered his perspective on the situation, emphasizing the entertainment-driven nature of the UFC. He stated,
“Obviously, it’s unfair, but you know what? If we start complaining about the UFC being unfair, then you’re not doing your homework. This is an entertainment sport first, and they’re about what’s going to make the most money for the company. So, if you’re not making enough noise, if you’re not making the right moves, then you’re not going to get the right opportunity.”
He further explained how Jon Jones manages his career strategically to maintain his position, saying,
“Jon Jones is making the right moves for Jon Jones. Jon Jones is very smart about what he does. So, therefore, he gets the opportunity and he gets to do things that nobody else can do. But one reason, he deserved it. He’s earned that opportunity to be where he is at… The UFC is allowing Jon Jones to control the situation because he can.”
Coach Mendez Highlights Jones and Makhachev as UFC’s Premier Athletes
Beyond the controversy, Mendez praised both fighters’ status in the organization. Makhachev currently holds the number one spot among pound-for-pound UFC fighters, while Jones ranks third. Both have remained undefeated in the promotion for nearly ten years, underscoring their dominance.
Speaking on The Javier & Mo Show, Mendez ranked Jones and Makhachev as the UFC’s leading stars at this time, stating,
“[Ilia] Topuria can come in at 155 [pounds] and if he wins there, then [the UFC] creates a big star in Topuria, so now you’ve got bigger stars. As it is right now in my opinion… I think the biggest stars in the UFC presently, the biggest, I think it’s Jon Jones and it’s Islam [Makhachev].”
Implications for UFC and Future Title Scenarios
This debate reflecting on Jon Jones’ UFC heavyweight title retention versus Makhachev’s vacated belt highlights the complexities of sports entertainment within mixed martial arts. Mendez’s insight reveals how fighters’ career strategies and UFC’s business approach influence championship status beyond strict competition results.
As both Jones and Makhachev continue shaping their legacies among the UFC’s elite, fans and analysts will be watching how the promotion balances merit, marketability, and fighter activity moving forward. Makhachev’s pursuit of a new weight class and Jones’ control over heavyweight opportunities may reshape future title dynamics in the organization.