“That’s something I take very personal” – Jon Jones enters ‘no-mercy’ mindset as he talks Ciryl Gane possibly harming his legacy

After three years away from mixed martial arts, Jon Jones is set to make his highly-anticipated return to the octagon against Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 this weekend. ‘Bones’ recently discussed the difference in mindset between him and his opponent as he prepares for his heavyweight debut.

Speaking on episode four of the UFC 285 Embedded: Vlog Series, the longtime light heavyweight champion stated:

“I hear that Ciryl Gane’s soccer team, his online team, is ranked top sixty in the world. I’m sitting here focusing on combat. He’s out here playing video games. The job is to have no mercy at the end of the day, whether he is ready for this opportunity or not.”

Jon Jones added:

“There’s somewhere inside of him that he thinks there’s a chance that he’s going to take food off my family’s table, that he’s going to destroy my legacy, and that’s something I take very personal and there’s no mercy. Probably in France, he’s super popular right now. They don’t care whether they win or lose. They’re just glad to be here. His coach is in suits, you guys haven’t even showered today.”

The difference in mentality between Jones and Ciryl Gane has been noticeable leading up to their UFC 285 heavyweight title bout. ‘Bones’ will look to become just the eighth fighter in UFC history to become a champion in two different weight classes, while ‘Bon Gamin’ will attempt to become the first undisputed UFC champion to hail from France.

Watch Jon Jones’ comments on Ciryl Gane below (starting at the 3:00 mark):

Jon Jones discusses Conor McGregor’s return

Jon Jones is not the only UFC legend set to re-enter the mixed martial arts world this year. Conor McGregor will make his highly-anticipated return against Michael Chandler after the pair coach opposing teams on season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter. Speaking at the media day for UFC 285, ‘Bones’ discussed the return of ‘The Notorious’, stating:

“There’s only one Conor McGregor. I love Conor. I love what he represents. He’s big. He has a gigantic brand. In some sense, it’s just as big as our sport. It’s going to be great when he comes back. He’s going to bring a whole new energy, even more fans. It’s great for all of us. It’s great for the sponsors. It’s great for the UFC. I wish Conor all the best.”

Jones added that he never thought he would see a mixed martial artist with a Lamborghini yacht, but that McGregor’s success outside of the sport opens doors for all fighters while inspiring the next generation. He added that he is proud of the former double champ’s success.

Check out Jon Jones’ full comments on Conor McGregor below: