NBA player James Johnson has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones to a fight. With a background in combat sports and an undefeated MMA record, Johnson believes he has what it takes to defeat the reigning champion.
| NBA Player James Johnson Challenges UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones |
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| NBA journeyman James Johnson believes he can beat Jon Jones in a fight with a year of training in takedown defense. Johnson has a background in combat sports, including an undefeated kickboxing record and a 7-0 MMA record. He is open to competing in the UFC after his NBA career. |
In a surprising turn of events, NBA journeyman James Johnson has thrown his hat into the ring of mixed martial arts. The 6’8" tall athlete, known for his physicality on the basketball court, believes he has what it takes to defeat reigning UFC heavyweight world champion Jon Jones. Johnson, who has a background in combat sports with an undefeated kickboxing record and a 7-0 MMA record, is confident in his abilities.
Johnson’s Challenge
In a video clip shared by Bloody Elbow, Johnson expressed his belief that he could beat Jon Jones in a fight, given a year of training in takedown defense. He emphasized his experience in striking and kicking, which he has been practicing since a young age. While acknowledging Jones’ advantage in wrestling and jiu-jitsu, Johnson is determined to keep the fight standing to secure a victory.
A Transition from NBA to MMA
Unlike bodybuilder Bradley Martyn, who has been stirring controversy in the MMA community with his challenges to fighters, James Johnson has a legitimate background in combat sports. Before his NBA career, Johnson amassed a perfect 20-0 record in kickboxing. He then made the transition to MMA, where he currently holds a 7-0 record. In a 2019 interview with Fanatics View, Johnson expressed his love for fighting and his desire to compete in the UFC after his basketball career.
The Fighter Mentality
Johnson’s passion for combat sports runs deep. He admires fighters like Chuck Liddell and Anderson Silva, who continue to be drawn to the game even after retiring. Johnson believes that the fighter mentality and heart never fade away, and he sees himself as a lifelong competitor.
