Jon Jones knows the low points of a fighter’s career better than most.
A suspension following a hit-and-run incident, two concurrent bans for testing positive for a prohibited substance and several other controversies outside the Octagon will likely end up marring Jones’ legacy as one of the greatest of all time.
While Jones is aware of the dark days that most fighters go through at some point, he’s never been in the position that Ronda Rousey currently finds herself.
Just over a year ago, Rousey was one of the most dominant forces in the UFC and, all of a sudden, she fell victim to two of the most devastating TKOs in recent history.
Amanda Nunes knocks out Robda Rousey in under 60 seconds. pic.twitter.com/V0xFj4JbL6
— Troy Machir (@TroyMachir) December 31, 2016
A dismantling at the hands and shins of Holly Holm last November forced ‘Rowdy’ into an extended hiatus during which she was understood to be focusing heavily on her striking.
But in her comeback fight on Friday night, she was steamrolled by a ruthless Amanda Nunes and Rousey’s fighting career now hangs in the balance.
Many have suggested that retirement is on the horizon for the former UFC women’s bantamweight champion while she has said, via a classy post-fight statement, that she intends to “take some time to reflect and think about the future.”
Who knows if we will see her fight again again or whether Rousey will put her energy into the entertainment industry.
Jones, who has faced his fair share of self-inflicted hardships, has offered his take on the situation and has some advice for the 29-year-old whose fall from grace is one of the most dramatic in UFC history.
My advice to Ronda would be to pick yourself up and try again.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
I believe Rousey will be a champion for the rest of her life, even if she never wins another fight
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
I think it's important for Ronda to show her fans how great she truly is by displaying her courage and giving it another try.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
What she does next will truly determine her legacy. I really hope she chooses to be a unbroken. Her story doesn't have to be over here
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
I also still believe she beats 90% of the division. Lots of ass kicking still to be done, lots of money to be made
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
Maybe she just needs to complement her coach with an MMA family. Maybe she should join one of the bigger MMA teams
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
Being around other bad asses and constantly sharing your spotlight could be good for you and so many ways. They can improve on your humility
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016
Constantly being humbled is never a bad thing in a sport like this
— BONY (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2016