Quinton Rampage Jackson thinks Jon Jones can enjoy a successful career at heavyweight but notes that one shot from Francis Ngannou could change that.
After a long reign at light-heavyweight, Jones relinquished his title and announced his intention to compete at heavyweight. The move has been delayed by a financial dispute with the UFC, although it is expected to be resolved soon thanks to the help of Jones’ new advisor, Richard Schaefer.
During a recent interview with Helen Yee, Rampage predicted that Jones will enjoy a successful career at heavyweight, he said.
“I think that Jones will do well in heavyweight if he can keep the guys from hitting him, which, you know, I had a hard time punching Jon Jones. I don’t think I landed anything clean on him. If he’s gotten even one percent better at avoiding getting hit in the face, I think he’ll do well at heavyweight.
“Because, he’s a great wrestler, and I think that he’d be able to control the fight, take ‘em down and fight. One thing about Jon Jones I think is that he has a strong mind, and whatever he puts his mind to, he can do it. And I just hope he puts his mind to focusing on his career and his personal life.”
Rampage Jackson Says Jon Jones Can’t Take Francis Ngannou’s Power Shots
‘Bones’ is expected to fight the winner of Francis Ngannou vs. Ciryl Gane who are set to unifiy the heavyweight division at UFC 270 in January. Jackson expressed some concern about Jones’ ability to withstand the power for Ngannou.
“I don’t know about that because Francis, what’s his name?” ‘Rampage’ added, “Francis Ngannou is; ain’t he the champion right now? Yeah, he tough. That guy is tough. And he looks like he hits really hard. And if he lands one shot on Jones, I don’t see Jones recovering from that. But like I said, Jones is hard to hit.” (Transcribed by Sportskeeda)
Do you agree with Rampage Jackson? Will Jon Jones be successful in the UFC’s heavyweight division?