JONES LIVES UP TO THE HYPE
Jon Jones said that he wanted to be the first man to finish Quinton “Rampage” Jackson inside the Octagon. Mission accomplished.
Jones undressed Rampage in Denver, Colorado. He picked apart the former undisputed champion on the feet with an ever-changing stance, using a plethora of kicks, both high and low, and punches from well outside of Rampage’s striking range. He also controlled the action on the ground, ultimately winning by rear naked choke.
Honestly, I’m not sure what Jones could have done better. Other than a one-punch knockout, I’m not sure what he else he can do to show people that he is definitely the best in the world at his weight. It was a virtuoso performance. What else can I say?
Rashad Evans is next up for the champ. I will break down that fight in detail in the days leading up to the bout, but Evans presents some unique challenges for Jones. First, his wrestling may very well force Jones to answer the question of his ability to fight effectively from his back. Second, there is probably no fighter in the world who knows Jones’ strengths and weaknesses better than Evans due to their history as training partners. Evans is an expert at game planning. That adds a special wrinkle to this matchup. Plus, there is real bad blood between these two, and that always makes for good TV.