There’s no doubt, no matter how much you train or how much wealth you earn, experience can’t be bought. That’s why veterans often pass down their wisdom to the next generation. Jon Jones, a legend who’s stayed at the top of the game for over a decade, recently spoke about Ilia Topuria. For Jones, Topuria’s real test begins now. He reflects not just on the challenge of becoming a champion, but the even harder task of staying one.
Jones believes winning the belt is tough, but staying champion is even tougher. When athletes get on top, the pressure changes. Fame, media, money, and lifestyle temptations come into play, and ‘Bones’ feels these distractions can break even the strongest fighters.
He says most athletes aren’t ready for that part of the journey. Still, he sees potential in Topuria. With a strong family and smart team behind him, ‘El Matador’ has a solid advantage. However, for Jones, being a great fighter isn’t just about skill inside the cage. It’s about handling everything outside of it, too.
“One thing that I know from experience, being in this sport for so long, is that it’s difficult to win the belt. It’s more difficult to live the lifestyle of a UFC champion and continue being a UFC champion. The fame, the press, the money, the girls, the alcohol all of it doubles down on you, and very few people can handle it,” he said.
Jon Jones talks about the rise of Ilia Topuria 📈🌹
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 30, 2025
"Time will tell. One thing that I know from experience, being in this sport for so long, is that it’s difficult to win the belt. It's more difficult to live the lifestyle of a UFC champion and continue being a UFC champion. The… pic.twitter.com/PTrLWvIPRr
Jones is absolutely right. The sport has seen many fighters rise to the top, reach the edge of greatness, and suddenly fall off. The spotlight, the pressure, and the distractions can pull them down just as fast as their talent pushed them up.
Roy Jones Jr. Offered Ilia Topuria To Train For UFC 317
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Roy Jones Jr. has now shown interest in working with former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria ahead of UFC 317. He believes he can bring real value to Topuria’s camp for the Charles Oliveira fight by sharpening his striking skills and teaching him how to stay grounded while maximizing power and precision.
Indeed, Topuria has already proven he has serious power in his hands. Bringing Roy Jones Jr. on board for his training could be a huge asset. It’s a move that could improve his striking game significantly and add an exciting new dimension to his preparation.
