UFC 285 Fallout: GOAT Debate Intensifies After Pereira’s Loss

At UFC 285, Ciryl Gane defeated Alex Pereira via second-round knockout, while Jon Jones defeated Gane via submission to become heavyweight champion. The outcomes have prompted discussion among UFC figures regarding the criteria for being considered the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the sport.

Differing Opinions on GOAT Criteria

Following the event, several UFC figures offered varying perspectives on whether Alex Pereira could be considered the GOAT if he had won a third division title, and whether Jon Jones retains that status.

Michael Bisping stated that winning a third weight class title would make Pereira the undeniable GOAT based on his accolades.

Dana White said a victory over Gane would have cemented Pereira as the UFC GOAT.

Laura Sanko stated it is too soon to make that assessment, noting that Jon Jones's resume is not comparable.

Matt Brown dismissed the GOAT discussion as promoter hype, differentiating between the most accomplished fighter and the greatest fighter.

Jon Jones's Response

Jon Jones posted a message on Twitter (later deleted) criticizing attempts to surpass him as the greatest of all time, following Pereira's loss.

Fighter Records and Background

• Alex Pereira is a former two-division UFC champion. He was scheduled to fight Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title while champion Tom Aspinall recovered from eye surgery.
• Jon Jones holds multiple UFC records, including most title fight wins (16) and most title defenses (12). He has a career loss due to disqualification for illegal elbows against Matt Hamill. He has faced legal issues and positive drug tests, resulting in overturned results and title stripping.