Dana White Rages Over UFC Rankings: Is AI the Answer to Jones’ Pound-for-Pound Snub?

It’s no secret that Dana White, the fiery president of the UFC, doesn’t shy away from airing his frustrations. This time, the target of his ire is none other than the official UFC pound-for-pound rankings, which still don’t feature Jon Jones in the top spot. After his dominant victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, fans and analysts alike expected Jones to ascend to the No. 1 position. Instead, he leapfrogged Alex Pereira to claim second place, but remains behind reigning lightweight king Islam Makhachev.

Dana’s Instagram Outburst

White took to Instagram on Monday night, voicing his frustration in a way only he can. “I have to get rid of these CLOWNS!!” he wrote, referring to the UFC rankings panel, before tagging Mark Zuckerberg and declaring, “Let’s get this AI deal done ASAP!!!!!”

It wasn’t the first time White had hinted at revamping the rankings system. Last month, he openly expressed his openness to integrating AI technology, even consulting Zuckerberg, a self-proclaimed UFC enthusiast, about the idea. With this latest rant, White has made it clear he’s serious about taking drastic measures to address what he sees as a flawed system.

Why Isn’t Jones No. 1?

The argument for Jones being at the top is compelling. He’s widely considered one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, a two-division champion, and fresh off an easy win against Miocic, the most decorated heavyweight in UFC history. So why is he still stuck at No. 2?

Critics of the rankings system argue that Islam Makhachev, the current No. 1, has been more active in defending his title and facing top-tier competition. Others believe the pound-for-pound list should reflect recent performances, and Makhachev’s string of dominant wins keeps him ahead of Jones for now.

However, Jones supporters counter that his legacy, combined with his seamless transition to heavyweight, should trump any arguments against him. His victory over Miocic was clinical, and many fans believe it’s time for Jones to reclaim his throne as the top pound-for-pound fighter.

Could AI Fix the Rankings?

White’s frustrations with the rankings panel are well-documented, and his push for AI integration suggests he’s ready to take a bold step forward. AI could theoretically analyze fighters’ performances more objectively, incorporating data on strike accuracy, grappling control, and opponent quality. But critics of the idea worry that AI could strip rankings of the human nuance needed to evaluate a fighter’s broader impact on the sport.

Still, the prospect of AI-powered rankings has intrigued fans, especially with Zuckerberg’s involvement. As a tech mogul and UFC fanatic, he’s uniquely positioned to help White revolutionize the system. Could the UFC soon see a rankings overhaul led by artificial intelligence? It’s looking more and more likely.

What’s Next for Jones?

While Dana White battles the rankings controversy, Jones seems unfazed. His dominant win at UFC 309 solidified his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats, regardless of where he sits on the pound-for-pound list. But with whispers of a potential fight against Tom Aspinall, the current interim heavyweight champion, Jones might have the chance to leave no doubt in anyone’s mind.

Whether it’s by AI or old-school debate, the rankings debate rages on. One thing is certain: Dana White won’t rest until Jon Jones is crowned No. 1. And if AI is the way forward, the UFC landscape could change forever.