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UFC legend says Jon Jones’ path to greatness was shaped by late brother Arthur

Originally posted on HITC | By Donagh Corby | Last updated Oct 6, 2025 3:20 PM ET

Jon Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history, and one former champion believes much of that is down to his late brother Arthur.

Arthur, who had a career in the NFL, died last week at 39. He was a steady presence during Jon’s two UFC title reigns, and since his passing, many prominent figures including Conor McGregor and Dana White have paid their respects.

For instance, following his stunning win over Magomed Ankalaev, Alex Pereira asked the UFC 320 crowd for a moment of silence in tribute to the former American football player.

Most recently, Olympic gold medallist and former UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion Henry Cejudo also weighed in on the Super Bowl winner’s death.

He stated that Jon would not have reached the heights he did without Arthur’s influence.

Henry Cejudo remembers Arthur Jones following his death at 39

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

While appearing on Pound 4 Pound with Kamaru Usman, Cejudo spoke about how Jon Jones credited his early competitiveness to growing up alongside Arthur.

“Jon used to tell me stories about his brother,” Cejudo began by saying.

“He’s like, ‘Dude, my older brother used to beat the s— out of me.’ He was a really high-level wrestler in the country before he transitioned into football.

“Why is Jon Jones the greatest of all time? It’s probably because he got bullied by his brother, Arthur Jones. It’s sad news for Mixed Martial Arts, it’s unfortunate, and I felt it too even though I wasn’t super close with Arthur, it stings.

“It just lets you know you’re here one day but you could be gone the next.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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