Blachowicz Believes Fear Drove Jones To Heavyweight
Jan Blachowicz insists he pushed Jon Jones out of the light heavyweight division. He argues Jones felt real pressure after his narrow win over Dominick Reyes in February 2020. Jones ended his reign soon after and said he wanted a second divisional title. He began long preparation for a heavyweight debut, which finally happened in 2023. Blachowicz doubts that explanation and suggests a different motive.
Polish Challenger Wanted Jones Before His Exit
Blachowicz returns at UFC 323 on Saturday to face Bogdan Guskov. He wants to climb back toward the 205-pound title. He captured the belt after his knockout of Reyes in 2020. He disliked fighting for a vacant title and wanted the champion instead. He pushed for a fight with Jones and even confronted him cageside after beating Corey Anderson. The bout never materialised. Jones then confirmed his move to heavyweight. Blachowicz later said on Submission Radio that he scared Jones away.
Blachowicz Says Jones Feared His Power
“You saw what I did with Dominick,” Blachowicz said. He claimed Jones escaped to avoid a loss against him. He argued Jones feared his power and shifted divisions. “He escaped from the legendary Polish power,” Blachowicz added. He insisted Jones wanted distance from that threat.
Jones Targets A Return In 2026 Despite Obstacles
While Blachowicz aims for a strong UFC 323 performance, Jones plans a return in 2026. He wants Alex Pereira at the planned UFC White House event on June 14. Dana White rejects that proposal and calls Jones unreliable for such a major card. Jones keeps pushing for a place on the show. He has stayed interested since President Donald Trump announced plans for fights on the White House lawn earlier this year.
