Who does Jon Jones fight? This question has been on the minds of mixed martial arts (MMA) fans worldwide since the light heavyweight champion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) made a name for himself in the sport. With a reputation for being one of the most dominant fighters in the history of MMA, Jones has faced a variety of opponents throughout his career, each bringing their own unique skill set and challenges.
Jon Jones’ rise to fame began in 2009 when he made his UFC debut, and since then, he has been a constant fixture at the top of the division. Over the years, Jones has faced off against some of the most formidable opponents in the world, including former champions, top contenders, and rising stars. Here’s a look at some of the key matchups that have defined Jones’ career.
One of the most notable fights in Jones’ career was against former UFC light heavyweight champion Rashad Evans. The two fighters met for the first time in 2010, and the highly anticipated bout did not disappoint. Evans, known for his technical prowess and boxing skills, pushed Jones to his limits in a closely fought contest. Despite suffering a knockout loss, Jones’ performance in the fight solidified his status as a rising star in the division.
Another significant opponent for Jones was former UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier. The two fighters clashed in a highly anticipated bout in 2016, with many believing it would be a fight for the ages. Jones, however, came out on top, submitting Cormier with a triangle choke in the third round. This victory not only earned Jones his third consecutive title defense but also marked the beginning of a rivalry that has captivated fans around the globe.
As Jones continued to climb the ranks, he faced off against another former champion, Anthony Johnson. The fight, which took place in 2017, was a back-and-forth battle that saw both fighters exchange significant blows. In the end, Jones was able to capitalize on a momentary lapse in judgment by Johnson to secure a unanimous decision victory. This win further cemented Jones’ status as the dominant force in the light heavyweight division.
One of the most recent and highly anticipated fights in Jones’ career was against Dominick Cruz, who challenged the champion for his title in 2018. The fight was a highly technical battle, with both fighters showcasing their striking and grappling skills. In the end, Jones was able to edge out Cruz with a split decision, maintaining his reign as the light heavyweight champion.
While Jon Jones has faced a variety of opponents throughout his career, one question that remains unanswered is who he will fight next. With rumors swirling about potential matchups against the likes of Stipe Miocic, Israel Adesanya, and Alexander Gustafsson, fans are eagerly waiting to see which of these legends will step into the cage with the American fighter. No matter who Jones faces next, one thing is certain: it will be a fight that will go down in the history books.
In conclusion, the question of who Jon Jones fights has been a source of excitement and anticipation for MMA fans. With a record of dominance and a string of memorable matchups, Jones has become one of the greatest fighters of all time. As he continues to challenge the best in the world, the answer to the question “Who does Jon Jones fight?” will continue to be a topic of conversation for years to come.