Jon Jones Thinks Anderson Silva Should Retire And Be A Motivational Speaker
UFC Light-Heavyweight champion Jon Jones is experiencing a rise almost like no other in MMA, I say almost because of the similarity between ‘Bones’ and former Middleweight boss Anderson Silva. The dominance, and sometimes controversy, that Jones displays at the top of 205 mirrors Silva’s journey between 2006-12.
‘The Spider’ was cutting through champion past and present on his journey towards becoming the GOAT. Jones, although a lot younger, has a tricky style that he attributes to watching Silva fight as a youth. As part of the new generation, Jones is often asked about Silva and especially now that the former MW kingpin has been dethroned.
We enter a new era of younger and fresher MMA stars now, and Jones stopped by with 106.7 WJFK to discuss Silva’s future in the sport:
“”I’m hoping that Anderson just stays away from the sport and continues to be an inspiration outside of the octagon,” Jones said. “[He should] not fight again. “It was just sad. I know how long Anderson Silva’s been working to be who he is,” Jones said of the injury. “I’ve won several world titles, this guy’s won like twelve, thirteen. That’s a lot of work.”
Joe Rogan recently voiced his concern for Silva’s health should he return this year, and now Jones says that the Middleweight legend should retire. It is clearly a seriously hot topic, but Silva has not wavered during his recovery time since UFC 168. I don’t think any amount of persuasion from ‘Bones’ or otherwise will discourage him, not if he still has the urge to win.
“Anderson can do seminars, he can do motivational speaking, he can help all the kids in Brazil,” Jones said. “I mean, he’s such an idol. His greatness has just begun, but I think in the octagon, I think it’s been already fun. It leaves a weird taste in your mouth, like it’s not supposed to end that way. What I’m hoping is that people remember Anderson for all the magnificent things he’s done, and all the lives he’s touched, and all the people he’s inspired,.”
As much as we might think it is time for Silva to retire, or not, the choice remains in his hands. The need to win is quite an overpowering addiction for some people, especially for champions in such a hardcore sport. If Silva returns, I hope that the fight is decisive, but also that his leg holds up.
Win or lose, Silva will hopefully have his path laid out before him. If a return fight is indeed on the cards for Silva this year, I’d be very interested to see how the last 12 months has affected him.
