Jon Jones fires back at critics after debuting new heavyweight physique: ‘Good thing it’s not a bodybuilding competition’

UFC Fighter Portraits

Jon Jones has heard the critics of his new heavyweight physique ahead of UFC 285.

Widely considered the greatest light heavyweight of all-time, Jones is set to make his long-awaited heavyweight debut at UFC 285, where he’ll challenge Ciryl Gane for the vacant UFC heavyweight title. The move follows a three-year layoff which saw Jones work extensively to bulk up to more than 250 pounds in preparation for his new division.

Jones has been teasing a heavyweight move since as far back as 2012, so naturally there is plenty of anticipation and attention being paid to what the former 205-pound king looks like with his new heavyweight physique. The wait was over when the UFC took its usual pre-fight photos . Jones quickly fired back at any critics who might have expressed an opinion about Jones’ new physique.

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Jon Jones poses ahead of his heavyweight debut at UFC 285.
Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC

” “It’s not a competition for bodybuilding!” Jones posted on Instagram Stories. “I have the strength and explosiveness of a lion right now. Now I have the ability to focus on my next fight and how I can improve. Most importantly, I’m 250 [pounds], still moving like a light heavyweight.”

Jones, 35, has fought 22 times in the UFC without suffering a loss outside of his controversial disqualification against Matt Hammill in 2009. A two-time UFC champion, Jones is tied for the most successful title defenses in UFC history (11). He last competed in February 2020, eking out a controversial decision win over Dominick Reyes.

Jones’ weight ahead of UFC 285 has become such an intrigue that some sportsbooks have even opened betting lines for what the former champ’s weight will be at Friday’s weigh-ins. Online bookmaker BetOnline currently has the over/under for Jones set at 242. 5 pounds.

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