Former Heat player says he’d beat UFC legend Jon Jones in a fight

NBA Legends and former teammates Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller welcome James Johnson to the OGs Show podcast to talk about Jon Jones, Derrick Rose, Coach Erik Spoelstra, break dancing and more.

Johnson's unique blend of height and weight—standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 240 pounds. He stands out as one of the most physically imposing athletes in the NBA and presents a significant presence on the court.

Moreover, his reputation is further enhanced by his second-degree black belt in karate, alongside an impressive record in kickboxing and mixed martial arts training that he began at the age of five. Johnson and his black belt credentials create a rare and ideal prototype for a traditional NBA enforcer. Rivals who confronted him were often unaware of the peril they faced.

On the podcast episode, Haslem inquired about Johnson's potential actions should he commence rigorous training in preparation for a bout against UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. He further remarked that had the kickboxing landscape been as it is now several years ago, he would have remained committed to pursuing a fighting career.

Should Johnson remain undefeated in his mixed martial arts career, this would account for his self-assuredness in issuing a daring challenge. During his appearance on the OGs Show podcast, Johnson asserted to Haslem confidently that he could defeat UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones in a match.

Former Miami Heat forward James Johnson claims he could beat UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones in a fight.

"I'm not just talking," Johnson said with emphasis. "I've been doing this my whole life like real training. It would be for that groundwork. As far as standing up and fighting I got an advantage. I truly truly believe that."

Jones presently holds the title of the UFC's top pound-for-pound fighter. His professional record stands at 27 wins, 1 loss, and no draws in the heavyweight division, featuring 10 knockouts and seven victories by submission. While Johnson's self-confidence is commendable, overcoming an opponent of Jones's stature appears to be a formidable challenge.

Who is James Johnson?

Johnson was selected 16th overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2009 draft. Although he did not receive significant playing time that season, he was content to witness Derrick Rose's rise to prominence.

Seven years later, he joined the Miami Heat after stints in the G League and with the Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings and Memphis Grizzlies.

During the 2016-17 season, which marked the team's first year without Dwyane Wade, Johnson emerged as a crucial contributor to the Heat's impressive 30-11 record in the second half of the season. His outstanding performance led the organization to reward him with a four-year contract worth $60 million.

However, concerns regarding his weight before training camp caused some tension between Heat President Pat Riley and Johnson's agent. Subsequently, in February 2020, Johnson was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of a three-team deal that facilitated the return of Andre Iguodala, Jae Crowder, and Solomon Hill to Miami from the Memphis Grizzlies, while the Heat sent Dion Waiters and Justise Winslow to Memphis.