Jon Jones will break Tito Ortiz’s record

Quinton Jackson, Lyoto Machida, Rashad Evans, Vitor Belfort and Chael Sonnen.

UFC Light Heavyweight champion Jon “Bones” Jones has successfully defended his title against all of these men. He has five successful title defenses in the UFC Light Heavyweight division, which ties the record set by hall of famer Tito Ortiz. Jones needs to defend his title one more time to break Ortiz’s record. Still, the question is not if, but when the current champion will break that record?

Jones has been king of the 205-pound weight class ever since he defeated Mauricio “Shogun” Rua for the title back in 2011. Since he became champion, Jones has captured the attention of fans from all over the world. While some are awed by his talent, others are put off by his attitude.

Yet, if there is one thing can do is sell a fight. His fights with Evans and Sonnen were heated, both inside and outside of the octagon. Meanwhile, his matches with Machida and Belfort kept fans on the edges of their seats.

After taking out the best in the light heavyweight division, who is left to face Jones? Machida earned a title shot after defeating Ryan Bader in August 2012, and retained that title shot after beating Dan Henderson. Jones has beaten Machida, and he will most likely do it again.

Strikeforce tournament champion Daniel Cormier, who is coming off a win over Frank Mir, could get a crack at the title if he drops to 205 pounds. While Cormier’s wrestling may be better, Jones may have the better striking.

Swedish fighter Alexander Gustafsson is another name that has been thrown into title contention. Although he has been sidelined with an injury, Gustafsson said he would take a fight against Jones or Machida. Once again, Jones would have the edge when it comes to striking.

A fighter Glover Teixeira may have a striking advantage, but Jones’s wrestling would certainly put him to the test.

Ortiz has also said he would like to return to stop Jones from beating his record. While Ortiz’s best years are behind him, he may have enough gas left in the tank to last a few rounds with Jones.

Is there anyone who could defeat Jones at this point in his career?

Who would you like to see Jones fight next? Answer with a comment below or send a tweet to @alstover

• Published on 04/30/2013 at 2:20 PM EDT
• Last updated on 09/30/2016 at 10:16 PM EDT