"Knows how to bait Jon Jones' ego" - Fans get into debate whether Dana White declaring Islam Makhachev P4P #1 points at failed 'Bones' negotiations

Dana White's recent declaration of Islam Makhachev as the pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter following UFC 311 has sparked speculation among fans and analysts. Many believe this pivot from his long-held endorsement of Jon Jones as the best may be a strategic move tied to ongoing negotiations with the heavyweight champion.

White’s shift comes amid active talks for a heavyweight title unification bout between Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall. While nothing is finalized, rumors suggest Jones may be seeking a substantial payday, leading some to speculate that White’s endorsement of Makhachev could be a calculated effort to provoke Jones’ competitive ego and expedite the deal.

Speculating on White's comments on X, a fan wrote:

"Is it wrong that when Dana White acknowledged that Islam is the best P4P fighter in the world, my mind went straight to the notion that the Jones negotiations must be going poorly?"

Several fans reacted to the X post with a harmonized perspective, writing:

"Nah, you’re probably correct. I think that’s why Dana called Joe [Rogan] about that $30 million rumor. Needs to let it be known he’s willing to walk away."

"Dana knows how to bait Jon Jones' ego. That's all it is."

"He’d do it regardless. If and when a Jones fight materializes, Dana will say Jones is #1 P4P again afterward Makhachev will return to #1 P4P for his fight. They won’t ever be on the same card so he’ll continuously go back and forth."

"That’s what I though, probably trying to light a fire in Jones to accept the fight."

Check out some of the fan reactions below:

Fans react to Dana White's stance switch in P4P debate. [Screenshots courtesy: @PetesyCarroll on X]

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Tom Aspinall reacts to Dana White's change of heart in Jon Jones vs. Islam Makhachev P4P debate

Tom Aspinall reacted humorously to UFC CEO Dana White’s recent claim of Islam Makhachev as the pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter.

Makhachev earned the recognition after securing his fourth UFC lightweight title defense at UFC 311 and setting a promotional record. Aspinall acknowledged Makhachev’s dominance and praised his ability to defeat any opponent presented to him.

The shift in White’s stance has drawn attention, particularly as Aspinall remains in active negotiations to face Jones for the heavyweight title. Shedding light on White's comments on his YouTube channel, Aspinall said:

"Now we’re seeing Dana White coming out and saying that [Islam] is the pound-for-pound No. 1 in the world, Islam Makhachev! As we all know, to me, pound-for-pound is a lot of made-up stuff. I don’t look into that, but it’s just funny that he’s kind of jumped ship now from Jon Jones to Islam. Islam did what he was supposed to do. Went out there, and fought whoever was put in front of him, which is what a champion is supposed to do. Got the win and he’s levels above anybody else in that division."

Check out Tom Aspinall's comments below (5:50):