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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Ian Casselberry

Former NBA Player Says He’d Beat UFC Legend Jon Jones in a Fight

James Johnson is one of the most physically formidable players in the NBA. Not only is he imposing at 6'7" and 240 pounds, but players throughout the league know Johnson has a second-degree black belt in karate with an alleged 20–0 kickboxing record and 7–0 mark in MMA. 

If Johnson is indeed undefeated as a mixed martial arts fighter, that would explain his confidence in making a bold challenge. Appearing on the NBA Rookie Life with Ryan Hollins podcast, Johnson said he could beat UFC heavyweight champ Jon Jones in a match. 

Lest anyone think Johnson is dangerous cocky, he concedes that he would need a year of training before taking on Jones.

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