Jon Jones: 'Win over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 solidifies my place as greatest of all-time'

Returning former UFC champion Jon Jones believes victory against Ciryl Gane next month will cement his place as the greatest of all-time.

The American, widely considered already the best UFC athlete in history, makes his long-awaited return following a three-year absence in the headline bout at UFC 285 on March 4.

Jones, whose lightweight title reign included 11 successful defences, moves up to heavyweight to take on Gane, the former interim champion, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Speaking on Unlocking the Cage with Jimmy Smith, Jones said his overall target is more than simply getting the victory and eventually reclaiming his position as the sport’s pound-for-pound No 1.

“Of course, I want to perform at the highest level possible,” Jones said. “I want to look great and not only do I want to win, I want to dominate.

“But, no, I’m not really thinking about the pressure of being pound-for-pound king. We all have our time of looking the absolute best in the world. I’m fighting for something that I believe is bigger, which is the greatest of all time – and I do believe a victory over Gane solidifies that.”

It doesn't get bigger than this - UFC President @DanaWhite confirms that @JonnyBones will take on @Ciryl_Gane for the