Jon Jones is NOT the next Muhammad Ali
But he’s no Muhammad Ali. Not yet, probably not ever. Sure, many of you may say the claims aren’t rampant,…
But he’s no Muhammad Ali. Not yet, probably not ever.
Sure, many of you may say the claims aren’t rampant, or at least aren’t made that often outside of the PR machine developing the brand of a young champion with mainstream appeal.
That’s fine. It’s better than fine, actually. It’s probably outright fact.
However, if it’s starting at the top with the UFC, it won’t be long before it’s becoming popular opinion and fodder for discussion. It goes back to saying something so many times that people believe it.
The thing is, though, is that it’s just plain not true.
Muhammad Ali is a cultural icon, known as much for his religious beliefs, political persecution, inspirational quotes and general ascendance to becoming the voice of a generation as he is for his athletic accomplishments.
Even now, 30 years retired and wracked with medical issues, looking far older than his 70 years, he’s an inescapable part of society. His words have been mythologized, his actions the stuff of legend. Truthfully, all that he is, has been, and will be is summarized by the fact that there is only one Ali.
Nobody—absolutely nobody—in his or her right mind can make that claim about Jon Jones.
At best, he’s a young champion in a sport with a growing audience. At worst he’s an unknown to a mainstream audience that won’t ever particularly care what he does or doesn’t do.
