Matching Jon Jones up against the top 5 UFC heavyweights

#2. Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane

Dana White puts the interim UFC heavyweight belt around Gane's waist. UFC 265: Lewis v Gane

Jon Jones undoubtedly has more experience than Ciryl Gane. However, everyone who has underestimated 'Bon Gamin' for lack of experience has lost. Gane has a professional MMA record of 10-0. Seven of those fights have been in the UFC. He also has a Muay Thai record of 13-0.

'Bon Gamin' is undefeated so far, yet many would still consider him a greenhorn. The Frenchman's rise to popularity and title contention has been swift. After six wins, he won the interim UFC heavyweight title by decisively putting away Derrick Lewis.

Ciryl Gane's biggest strength inside the octagon has been his agility. For a man of his size, he moves very well. The 30-year-old prefers to stick and move, chopping at the legs and body with kicks. He is also an adept submission artist. Jones vs. Ciryl Gane may shape up to be a five-round, tactical affair.

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#1. Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou

Francis Ngannou might very well be the biggest challenge for Jon Jones. Since making his debut in December 2015, the champ has demolished nearly all of his opponents. Ten of his eleven wins have come via KO or TKO. Andrei Arlovski, Alistair Overeem and Stipe Miocic are all part of his highlight reel.

The Nigerian challenged Miocic for the heavyweight crown in 2018. The man who had finished every opponent before the third round got dominated on this occasion. After dropping another unanimous decision loss to Derrick Lewis, Ngannou found his winning ways again.

Ngannou vs. Miocic 2 took place in March 2021. The 35-year-old looked like a different fighter, displaying superb takedown defense and knocking out Miocic in round two.

Jon Jones vs. 'The Predator' would probably be the biggest heavyweight bout in UFC history. Inside the octagon, Jones would need every bit of his skill and fight IQ to deal with the champion. Ngannou always had dynamite in his hands but now has immense precision too.

Jon Jones has rarely faced anyone with comparable knockout power to Ngannou. Despite being a more technical striker, 'Bones' could face a similar fate to those who have fought Ngannou before him.