Jon Jones Counters Oleksandr Usyk's Boxing Super-Fight Offer

Jon Jones has turned down Oleksandr Usyk's offer for a boxing super-fight, but that doesn't mean a fight between the two is completely off the table.

What happened?

According to The Ring Magazine, Jon Jones was named as one of the fighters Oleksandr Usyk wants to face in his first big US headliner and potential retirement fight. The Ukrainian even surrendered his belts in order to allow him to explore names that aren't necessarily atop the division.

Why it matters for Jon Jones

Usyk's decision to vacate his world heavyweight titles has sparked interest in a potential fight between the two. Deontay Wilder has long been one of Usyk's desired opponents, but Jon Jones emerged as a potential opponent despite never having a boxing match in his life.

What comes next?

Speaking with The Ring Magazine, Jones explained that he wasn't keen on just boxing and instead suggested that the pair fight in MMA. "Usyk is Usyk, man, he is one of the absolute GOATs of heavyweight boxing," Jones explained. "I also am aware that he does wrestling and that wrestling has been a heavy part of his training for many years which is probably why he is so dominant in the clinch. If he would like to test his total combat skills, I would oblige in that."

Jones believes that a fight in the octagon would be more competitive, as it would allow both fighters to use their full range of skills. "But to handicap myself by only using my hands is not the world that I come from," Jones said. "So out of all the heavyweight boxers, I do see Usyk as having the highest potential of making it competitive but I am no boxer."

What's next for Jon Jones?

The two-division UFC champion is currently focused on his MMA career, but a potential fight with Oleksandr Usyk could be in the works. Jones has made it clear that he's not interested in just boxing, and a fight in the octagon would be more appealing to him.

Jones' comments come after Usyk's decision to vacate his world heavyweight titles, sparking interest in a potential fight between the two. Deontay Wilder has long been one of Usyk's desired opponents, but Jon Jones emerged as a potential opponent despite never having a boxing match in his life.

What's at stake for Oleksandr Usyk?

Usyk's decision to vacate his world heavyweight titles has put him in a difficult position. He's been searching for a big-name opponent to face in his final fight, but Jon Jones' rejection of his boxing super-fight offer has left him with few options.

Usyk's potential fight with Jon Jones would be a massive opportunity for him to prove himself in the MMA world. However, it's unclear whether he's willing to take on the challenge.

Jones' comments have sparked interest in a potential fight between the two, but it remains to be seen whether it will actually happen. One thing is certain, though: a fight between Jon Jones and Oleksandr Usyk would be one for the ages.