Jon Jones and Israel Adesanya had a prolonged rivalry, but Adesanya is now making an effort to end the conflict with Jones. At the same time, Alex Pereira, a longstanding adversary of Izzy, has shown interest in training with the current UFC heavyweight champion.
Both Jones and Adesanya are unquestionably among the most prominent figures in UFC history. Despite their MMA status, their personal relationship had been strained for an extended period until a recent decision to set aside past differences.
Alex Pereira expresses a wish to spar with Jon Jones
At UFC 291 held at the Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah, Alex Pereira marked his debut in the light heavyweight division by squaring off against Jan Blachowicz. Pereira emerged victorious against the Polish fighter, signaling a promising trajectory toward contending for a title in his new weight class.
Alex Pereira Aspires to Train With Jon Jones ⚒️
🔗 https://t.co/ctxMSMP8ws pic.twitter.com/czehKSsX3r
— Combat Sports UK (@CombatSportsUK) August 1, 2023
In this light heavyweight division, Poatan could encounter formidable obstacles from fighters such as Jiri Prochazka and Magomedov Ankalaev, who presently hold the division’s top two rankings and present substantial challenges to Pereira’s ascent.
The Brazilian fighter views Jon Jones as an ideal candidate to offer valuable insights to shine in 205-lb. Recently, Pereira conveyed his interest in sparring with the former light heavyweight kingpin aiming to acquire additional experience by training alongside Bones.
“An amazing fighter, one of the best of all times for me. And I have never had contact with him either, but he looks like a very humble guy, a really nice guy. I would also like to train with him one day and meet him.” Alex said.
Alex Pereira had a lot of praise for Jon Jones. 👏
Could we see Poatan & Bones team up soon? pic.twitter.com/ew7Pa722pF
— Blockasset Sport (@BlockassetSport) August 1, 2023
While Jon Jones has not yet provided an official confirmation about his decision to aid Pereira’s advancement in the middleweight division, the reigning heavyweight champion expressed that he would be honored to engage in sparring sessions with Pereira.
Israel Adesanya and Jon Jones end the past rivalry
In a recent appearance on the Impaulsive podcast hosted by Logan Paul, Adesanya opened up about his longstanding conflict with Jones. Izzy mentioned that they had a recent interaction during UFC 290, which he considered a significant moment guided by fate.
The Last Stylebender conveyed that they have mutually chosen to set aside their rivalry and progress harmoniously by saying, “Yeah, [the beef is squashed]. We have understanding and common ground, we’re just competitors, bro. It’s like, why should I hate my brother?”
Israel Adesanya and Jon Jones (2023) pic.twitter.com/Ipb59Jn4CI
— Fight Pics That Go Hard (@fightpicsgohard) July 6, 2023
The Last Stylebender is currently scheduled to face Sean Strickland to defend his title. Meanwhile, Jones will be stepping into the octagon in UFC 295 to defend his title against Stipe Miocic.
