Jon Jones, Jamal Murray and Alexander Volkanovski (Credits: Twitter)
NBA Champion who Pleaded for his Life against Jon Jones, Takes on Alexander Volkanovski in BJJ Showdown
In a showdown of two worlds, NBA champion Jamal Murray, the star point guard of the 2023 NBA champion Denver Nuggets, stepped onto the mats for a friendly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) session with none other than UFC champion Alexander Volkanovski. Jamal Murray had famously pleaded for his life after winning Best Comeback Athlete over Jon Jones at ESPYS.
While some may have doubted how a much larger athlete from a different sport could fare against a UFC powerhouse, Murray decided to put his skills to the test.
Before the grappling session commenced, a challenge was issued. Alexander Volkanovski was tasked with attempting to submit the towering NBA star in under a minute. Murray, displaying commendable defensive maneuvers for a beginner, held his own but ultimately succumbed to a guillotine choke just as the buzzer sounded.
Replays later revealed that Murray’s tap occurred just after the one-minute mark, technically making him the victor of the challenge. Volkanovski, with a chuckle, reacted to the narrow escape, exclaiming, “He made the minute?!”
However, this initial success was short-lived for Murray, as the friendly rolls continued. Volkanovski expertly secured a guillotine and a standing rear naked choke against his basketball counterpart, showcasing his grappling prowess. He then generously afforded Murray opportunities to start from dominant positions, only for Murray to find himself easily escaping.
In good spirits, Murray admitted, “I’m not moving properly; I’m just trying to survive. I’ll be better tomorrow.”
To this, Volkanovski graciously replied, “You’re much better (in this sport) than I am at basketball.”
The two athletes even dabbled in basketball for a brief moment, where Murray lent a helping hand to Volkanovski, who finally managed to score a basket.
Murray’s solid foundation and astute reactions during the BJJ session were apparent, highlighting his dedication to cross-training. Additionally, the Denver Nuggets, reigning NBA champions, delved into BJJ and boxing training during their off-season, possibly contributing to Murray’s enhanced skills.
This unique crossover training session showcased the exciting world of combat sports, as athletes from different disciplines came together to test their mettle and expand their horizons.
Jon Jones, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion set to defend his title against Stipe Miocic in New York on November 11, has found a moment of levity amidst his preparations for UFC 295. In an amusing turn of events, Jones recently became an unexpected target of a Jake Paul employee’s banter.
Derek Sullivan, who is associated with Paul’s Betr betting company, has leveraged his connection with the YouTube sensation-turned-boxer to gain access to significant combat sports events. Sullivan notably ruffled feathers at a press conference by irking Nate Diaz when he requested a fight with the legendary UFC figure’s older brother, Nick Diaz. He boldly asserted, “If he’s anything like you, I think I’d beat his f****** ass.”
Last week, Derek uploaded footage of his first serious sparring session, which ended with him bowing out after absorbing a body shot. Although he might have taken a hit to his pride, it didn’t deter him from challenging the greatest MMA fighter of all time, Jon Jones, who had reacted to the video with a smiley face emoji.
“Jon Jones, I see you commenting on the video of me getting my ass kicked in sparring, and I see you smiling about it,” Derek remarked in a follow-up video. “I guess you’re still mad that I bet against you. But look, Jon, you’re a legend, you’re a GOAT, but keep my name out of your f****** mouth or we’re gonna have a problem.”
In a lighthearted response, Jones quipped, “Bro, that’s my apologies, I didn’t think you read the comments. Please forgive me. I don’t want no smoke. I’m actually a massive fan.”
Derek graciously accepted Jones’ apology, letting the UFC heavyweight king off with a playful warning. “Jon Jones, I appreciate the apology, and obviously I’ll let this one slide. But let this be a lesson, you cannot talk s*** someone and not expect consequences. Also, since you’re such a big fan, I might be able to get you some ringside seats to my first fight.”
‘Bones’ thanked Derek for his understanding, while also extending an invitation. “Man lesson learned, thanks a ton for the forgiveness,” Jones wrote. “I hope one day Jake realizes what an amazing asset and athlete you are. I already have plans on making it to your first fight! I know tickets are probably going to sell out fast. [It] would be so awesome if you followed me back on the gram! Please make my wish come true, follow me back! Your number one fan Bones.”
A quick glance at Derek’s following list reveals that he made Jones’ wish come true, bringing an amusing close to this playful exchange. Now, the UFC champion can refocus on preparing for his upcoming showdown against a former two-time champion widely regarded as one of MMA’s heavyweight greats, Stipe Miocic.
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