Jon Jones recognizes Marreta's strength, but minimizes the chance of suffering a knockout

J. Jones (left) and T. Marreta (right). Photo: Reproduction/YouTube MMA Meltdown

There is just over a week left until the long-awaited clash between the light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg.) Jon Jones and the Brazilian Thiago Marreta, which takes place on July 6th. As the fight approaches, nervousness can take over some athletes, however, this does not seem to be the case for Jones. The fighter stated that he is not intimidated by the Brazilian's size and that he knows exactly what to do to remain the title holder in the category. The information was given in a recent interview to promote the UFC 239.

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“Historically, no one has been able to knock me out because no one has been smart enough. I feel like my opponent has the ability to do that if I put my hands back and let him hit my chin,” Jon said. “It's not about strength, it's about being smart enough to land the shot. To this day, no one has been smart enough. So, I’m not worried about his (Marreta) muscles”, declared the champion.

Jones also commented on the moment he is experiencing in his career after overcoming traumas such as the doping cases that led to suspensions a few years ago. The athlete comes from a sequence of impressive fights. In the last seven months, after the UFC 239, 'Bones' will have found out about his third fight.

“It is more than gratifying to be the UFC light heavyweight champion. It's a special job to have and I just want to do it right. I feel like there aren't many things you can do in life to make this kind of money. So my body will hold on and we'll keep going until my wheels fall off. So, I'm here to continue dominating and raising money for my family”, concluded Jones.

If you defeat Thiago Marreta, Jon will complete his 17th fight without defeat. If he hadn't been caught in a doping case after his duel against Daniel Cormier, in September 2017, the athlete could record his 17th consecutive triumph.

The Brazilian also comes from a good winning streak. Despite being the underdog for the fight, Marreta is in a great phase of his career. In his last 10 victories, nine were by knockout.