5 fighters who could replace Conor McGregor

#3 Jon Jones

Jon Jones is expected to return later this year

Yes, Jon Jones has been a PPV draw for the UFC well before Conor McGregor made his debut in the organization.

Nevertheless, one can’t deny that as Jones is a combatant featured in the promotion’s second-heaviest weight-class, the average shelf life of ‘Bones’ as a competitor and PPV draw is significantly higher than that of McGregor who competes in the lighter weight classes. Besides, Jones may have gotten in trouble time and again outside the Octagon, but per USADA and UFC executives, fans could expect the former UFC Light-Heavyweight Champion to be cleared for an in-ring return sooner than initially expected.

Furthermore, Jones is virtually undefeated—barring the DQ loss to Matt Hamill—and unlike McGregor, Jones is one of the most well-rounded MMA fighters. Besides, much like 'The Notorious One', Jones is an expert at the fine art of trash talk, as evidenced by his multiple rivalries with Daniel Cormier, Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson, Rashad Evans and many more.

With his legal issues nearing resolution in 2018, fans can expect Jones to return as a PPV draw for the UFC, likely in the latter half of this year.