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Gordon Ryan recently took to Instagram with a post, teasing a return to competitive Brazilian jiu-jitsu. This drew a reaction from many, including reigning UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. The no-gi grappling legend hasn't participated in a single grappling competition since Oct. 1, 2023.
A series of debilitating health issues have kept Ryan on the sidelines but he strived to return to the Brazilian jiu-jitsu mats, where he has carved out a legacy for himself as one of the greatest of all time. His standing in the sport is of such height, that even Jones is nervous.
The heavyweight kingpin of the UFC shared his thoughts with a comment on Ryan's post, joking that even he is fearful of the all-time great's return to the mats.
He said:
"Sh*t, I just got nervous and I don't even compete in jujutsu."
For years now, Ryan has battled stomach-related issues, which have only grown more severe, ultimately resulting in tremendous weight loss and muscular atrophy. But, as is often the case with professional athletes, Ryan managed to bounce back.
He has since rebuilt his physique, and while he hasn't reached the same level of muscularity as before, he is tending to his gut health. His return to no-gi grappling will likely draw significant anticipation, as Ryan is currently at the helm of an astonishing 56-fight win streak.
Among his conquered foes are Brazilian jiu-jitsu phenoms Nick Rodriguez, André Galvão, and Craig Jones, who serves as a grappling coach to former UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.
Gordon Ryan and Jon Jones have trained together
As Jon Jones settled into his role as a UFC heavyweight, he enlisted the assistance of Gordon Ryan to tighten up his Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The two have been spotted training together, with clips of their rolling sessions making the rounds on social media. However, it isn't just training that both men have partaken in.
Check out Gordon Ryan and Jon Jones training together:
They've also frequented the shooting range together, as both men are firearms enthusiasts. Ironically, they suffered serious health issues at similar points, as last year Ryan's stomach issues grew unbearable, while Jones tore a pectoral tendon.
