Dan Hardy Questions Jon Jones' Heavyweight Status

Dan Hardy, a prominent MMA analyst and head of fighter relations for PFL Europe, has sparked debate regarding the heavyweight rankings, placing Jon Jones third, despite acknowledging him as the pound-for-pound best fighter. Hardy argues that while Jones is the current UFC heavyweight champion, he is not the best heavyweight in the world, citing the impressive speed of interim champion Tom Aspinall and the formidable power of PFL champion Francis Ngannou. He believes the winner of a potential matchup between Aspinall and Ngannou would determine the top heavyweight. Hardy respects Jones's fight IQ and experience but questions his ability to compete effectively against faster and more powerful opponents. Following recent calls for a Jones vs. Ngannou fight, Hardy emphasizes that such a bout could provide clarity in the heavyweight division. The discussion reflects the ongoing complexities in ranking these elite fighters within the current MMA landscape.