Jon Jones's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Jon Jones. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Jon Jones is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the UFC's Heavyweight division, where he is the reigning champion. Previously a dominant Light Heavyweight Champion, holding the title from 2011-2015 and 2018-2020 (also interim champion in 2016), Jones is widely considered one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. As of November 19, 2024, he is ranked #2 in the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

March 19, 2011: UFC Light Heavyweight Champion

On March 19, 2011, Jon Jones defeated Maurício 'Shogun' Rua by TKO at UFC 128, becoming the youngest ever UFC champion.

September 21, 2013: Victory Against Alexander Gustafsson

On September 21, 2013, Jon Jones fought Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 165 and won via unanimous decision, earning the Fight of the Night bonus award.

December 16, 2014: Jones Signs Sponsorship Deal with Reebok

On December 16, 2014, Jones announced that he had signed a sponsorship deal with Reebok.

April 23, 2016: Jones defeats Saint Preux at UFC 197

On April 23, 2016, Jones defeated Ovince Saint Preux by unanimous decision at UFC 197.

July 29, 2017: Jones Defeats Cormier at UFC 214

On July 29, 2017, Jones defeated Daniel Cormier at UFC 214, recapturing the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship via knockout and earning a Performance of the Night bonus.

October 28, 2018: Jones becomes eligible to fight again

On October 28, 2018, Jon Jones became eligible to fight again after serving a suspension. He was scheduled to fight Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 232.

December 29, 2018: Jones Wins UFC Light Heavyweight Championship

On December 29, 2018, Jones defeated Alexander Gustafsson by technical knockout in the third round to win the vacant UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.

2018: Championship Reclaimed

In 2018, Jon Jones reclaimed the championship by defeating Alexander Gustafsson after his 2017 suspension was lifted.

March 2, 2019: Jones Defeats Anthony Smith at UFC 235

On March 2, 2019, Jones defeated Anthony Smith via unanimous decision at UFC 235, although he was deducted two points for an illegal knee.

July 6, 2019: Jones Defends Title Against Thiago Santos

On July 6, 2019, Jones defended his title against Thiago Santos at UFC 239, winning by split decision.

February 8, 2020: Jones Defeats Dominick Reyes at UFC 247

On February 8, 2020, Jones defeated Dominick Reyes via a controversial unanimous decision at UFC 247, setting a new record for most wins in UFC title fights.

March 8, 2020: UFC Hall of Fame Induction

On March 8, 2020, it was announced that the fight between Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson would be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame's Fight Wing on July 9.

March 4, 2023: Jones Wins UFC Heavyweight Championship

On March 4, 2023, after over three years away, Jones defeated Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 to win the vacant UFC Heavyweight Championship via a guillotine choke, earning a Performance of the Night bonus.

2023: UFC Heavyweight Championship

In 2023, Jon Jones returned to MMA after three years and won the UFC Heavyweight Championship against Ciryl Gane.

November 16, 2024: Jones wins Fight by TKO

On November 16, 2024, Jones won the fight by technical knockout via a spinning back kick followed by punches in the third round. This fight earned him another Performance of the Night award.