Sports Nicknames - Bones

Jon Jones is most certainly a controversial figure. The MMA fighter competes in the light heavyweight division, where he has held the title for a combined 6 years over two periods. Jones also has the distinction of becoming the youngest champion in UFC history when he won at the age of 23.



Jones began his career wrestling and playing American football. However, because of his slight frame, his coach nicknamed him "Bones". This nickname has stuck around for the rest of his career. It wasn't until 2008 when Jones made his professional MMA debut, where he went undefeated for 3 months.

Jones signed with UFC in 2008, winning his initial 3 matches before losing his 4th via being disqualified for using 12-6 elbows. His use of elbows has continued throughout his career, both legally and otherwise. Jones faced Mauricio Rua for his first Light Heavyweight Championship match, dropping Rua by TKO at 2:37 of Round 3.

Jones would hold onto this title until April 2015, after he was suspended due to his connection with a hit-and-run incident in a car. He was suspended again in 2016 after a doping violation. He was suspended a third time in 2017 when he was flagged for more doping. Finally, he returned and reclaimed the Light Heavyweight Championship in 2018, which he still holds at the time of this writing.

Jones undoubtedly is a talented fighter, as one does not become the youngest champion otherwise. However, his persistent battles with UFC and the rules will most certainly tarnish what could otherwise have been a legendary legacy.

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