Jon Jones explains viral GOAT necklace post after Pereira loss

Jon Jones has clarified that his viral GOAT necklace video posted after Alex Pereira's loss was not directed at the Brazilian, but at critics who had suggested Pereira would become the greatest of all time with a win.

Pereira dropped a second-round stoppage to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 last month when he challenged for interim heavyweight gold. Minutes after that result, Jones shared a clip of himself wearing a GOAT necklace, drawing immediate backlash from fans who viewed it as disrespectful timing.

Jones clarifies GOAT necklace message was for critics

Speaking to Red Corner MMA, Jones explained the post was a response to those who had declared Pereira would claim GOAT status with a third divisional title. "A lot of people, before the fight, were saying that if Alex wins he is the greatest of all time," Jones said. "And my little video after Alex's loss was a message to all my haters. It wasn't directed towards Alex. So I wanna make that very clear. I have nothing but respect for Alex."

Jones pointed to Pereira's gesture after the death of his brother Arthur last October as a moment that earned his lasting respect. "After my brother died, Pereira came out and had a moment of silence for my brother," Jones said, per Sherdog. "And I respect that very, very dearly."

The heavyweight champion said he wished Pereira well despite the appearance of the post, which came as Pereira expressed surprise given their history of mutual respect. Jones is currently in a dispute with the UFC after failing to secure a spot on the White House card.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Jon Jones finally explains viral GOAT necklace moment that had UFC fans talking