Kamaru Usman has weighed in on a potential grappling match between former UFC champions Brock Lesnar and Jon Jones after RAF hinted that both could be signed by the promotion.
If a Brock Lesnar vs. Jon Jones grappling match ever lands on a major event card, Kamaru Usman believes size could be the deciding factor. Speaking recently on the Pound 4 Pound podcast, the former UFC welterweight champion said he would lean toward Lesnar in a hypothetical matchup with Jones.
That opinion stands out because Jones has long been viewed by many American MMA fans as one of the sport’s most complete talents, while Lesnar remains one of the biggest physical outliers ever to compete at the highest level. Even in a fantasy-style grappling scenario, that contrast makes the matchup instantly compelling.
Usman said the question is a wild one, but added that he would probably take Lesnar based largely on his size and wrestling style. In Usman’s view, Lesnar was never just a relentless shot-machine, but he knew how to wear opponents down. He suggested that Jones would likely be the more offensive fighter, yet repeatedly trying to attack the legs and force takedowns on someone as massive as Lesnar is not something he sees working consistently.
That gets to the real intrigue here. Jones has built his reputation on adaptability, leverage and elite fight IQ, but Lesnar brings a level of raw strength and top control that few heavyweights in MMA history could match. For Jones, a matchup like this would test whether technique and creativity can overcome a major physical disadvantage. For Lesnar, it would reinforce the idea that a world-class big man with legitimate wrestling credentials is still a nightmare even against a more polished all-around martial artist.
There is also a strong U.S. fan angle to the idea. Lesnar remains one of the biggest crossover stars the sport has ever had, and Jones is still one of the most debated figures in MMA history. Put those names together in any combat setting and the fight sells itself. If RAF moves from teasing to actually making offers, expect the speculation to pick up fast.
