Jon “Bones” Jones stands as a towering figure in mixed martial arts, often hailed as one of the greatest MMA fighters ever. His career, marked by both spectacular victories and controversial moments, has kept him firmly in the spotlight, both inside and outside the octagon. As of November 9, 2024, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion boasts an impressive record of 27 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no-contest, cementing his place among the sport’s elite and holding the No. 3 spot in the men’s pound-for-pound rankings. Beyond his fighting prowess, Jones is also known for his endorsement deals, being the first MMA athlete to secure international partnerships with giants like Nike, Gatorade, and MuscleTech. Another aspect of Jones’ persona that draws attention is his body art. So, how many tattoos does Jon Jones have, and what are the stories behind them? Let’s delve into the meanings of Jon Jones’ tattoos.
The Philippians 4:13 Chest Tattoo: A Tribute to Family
One of the most prominent pieces of ink on Jon Jones is the “Philippians 4:13” tattoo emblazoned across the right side of his chest. This foot-long tattoo is more than just a design; it’s a deeply personal tribute.
Meaning and Story: The tattoo directly references Philippians 4:13 from the Bible, a verse that reads, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse held special significance for Jones’ sister, Carmen, and the tattoo serves as a memorial to her after her tragic passing due to brain cancer in 2000. Inked by artist Talina, this piece is a constant reminder of his sister’s strength and faith. Further honoring her memory, Jones named his daughter Carmen, creating a lasting legacy for his beloved sister.
The Gaidojutsu Rib Tattoo: A Nod to His Martial Arts Journey
Close-up of Jon Jones' Gaidojutsu tattoo on his left ribs during the UFC 247 weigh-ins, showcasing the vertical Japanese Kanji symbols representing his martial arts style.
Located on Jon Jones’ left rib cage are two vertically stacked Japanese Kanji symbols. This tattoo speaks to his dedication to his unique martial arts background.
Meaning and Story: The two symbols are 㝊 and 術. Individually, 㝊 translates to “to guide,” and 術 means “art” or “skill,” notably the “su” in jiu-jitsu. While together these characters don’t form a standard Japanese word, phonetically they approximate “Gaidojutsu.” Gaidojutsu is a distinctive martial art style developed by Greg Jackson, Jones’ long-time trainer, and is central to Jones’ fighting style. This tattoo is a clear homage to his martial arts foundation and the guidance of Greg Jackson in his career.
Jon Jones’ tattoos are not merely decorative; they are meaningful symbols that represent his personal values, family connections, and martial arts journey. They offer a glimpse into the man behind the “Bones” persona, revealing the influences and motivations that drive this legendary UFC champion.
Last updated on November 9, 2024
