One of MMA’s greatest has told Conor McGregor and Jon Jones they won’t be needed when the UFC heads to the White House next summer.
The two legends are still in the early stages of their comeback campaigns, each eyeing a spot on one of the biggest events in UFC history. But Demetrious Johnson, another name often mentioned among the sport’s all-time greats, doesn’t think they’re essential.
He believes there are plenty of current fighters who deserve those spots more than two men who’ve barely fought since COVID-19 hit. Dana White seems to feel similarly about Jones, though McGregor’s return isn’t completely off the table yet.
Demetrious Johnson not backing Conor McGregor or Jon Jones to appear at UFC White House
Demetrious Johnson doesn’t think Conor McGregor and Jon Jones are the top names in combat sports heading into 2025, considering how little they’ve fought recently. He believes the event should feature active fighters who casual fans will want to watch.
“I don’t like when someone’s iced, sitting there chilling, they get to pick and choose what they want to do,” Johnson told his co-host the MMA Guru. “Maybe they earned that right, I have no idea. But for me? I want to see guys who are putting the f—ing rubber to the pavement.”
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“I’m not denying what Jon’s done. But if we’ve got guys fighting their a–es off right now they should get first dibs. Even Conor, We don’t need Conor’s a– on the White House card.
“Him and Donald Trump have a good thing going. But I don’t want to see other athletes miss out on an opportunity that are fighting right now.”
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