I grew up originally in Rochester. It was where I was born and a very tough neighbourhood with a lot of violence. I consider myself lucky. When I was aged 11, in 1998, Dad moved us to a suburban area from what was a ghetto area. It gave me a chance of survival.

In this quote, Jon Jones reflects on his upbringing in Rochester, a place he describes as a very tough neighborhood filled with violence. He acknowledges the challenges of growing up in a ghetto area, but also expresses a sense of luck for the opportunity he had when his family moved to a suburban area at the age of 11. Jones credits this move with giving him a better chance at survival, suggesting that the environment he was raised in could have posed greater risks to his well-being if not for the change.

The origin of this quote comes from Jon Jones, an American mixed martial artist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in the history of the sport. Jones’ rise to success in the UFC was shaped by his difficult early life, and his journey from a rough neighborhood to a more stable environment played a significant role in his development. His experiences provide context for his understanding of survival and the ways in which environment and circumstance can impact a person's future.

Jones' reflection on his luck points to the idea that sometimes external factors, such as family decisions or geographical changes, can dramatically alter the course of one’s life. The move to a more stable and supportive environment provided him with an opportunity to grow and succeed—something he might not have had if he had remained in a more dangerous area. This realization highlights the privilege of being able to escape a volatile situation and have a shot at a better future.

Ultimately, this quote underscores the importance of environment and opportunity in shaping a person's life. For Jones, moving from a violent, high-risk area to a more peaceful, supportive community allowed him to develop the foundation for a successful life. It serves as a reminder of how circumstantial changes can provide crucial opportunities for personal growth and survival, influencing the trajectory of one's future.