Rashad Evans might finally been rewarded with a title bout with Jon Jones following his victory over Phil Davis last weekend, but Jones doesn’t feel like Evans’ performance granted him a title shot.
The UFC light heavyweight champion appeared on “The MMA Hour” with Ariel Helwani earlier this week and discussed his thoughts on the main event, and he wasn’t impressed with Evans.
Jones said he saw glimpses of improvement in some areas, but most of all, the 24-year-old was critical of Evans’ overall performance.
“I think his top control looked a little tighter, I think his guard passes looked pretty decent,” Jones said.
“I definitely didn’t see any progressions. I feel like he’s coming down the other side of the hill. Even his body looked softer.”
Jones and Evans have shared a mutual disliking since “Bones” replaced the 32-year-old and captured the 205-pound crown last year. Jones’ victory immediately caused a rift between the two former teammates, forcing Evans to switch camps shortly after.
Since transitioning camps, Evans has earned two consecutive victories to his name, but Jones doesn’t believe it serve much purpose when the two light heavyweights are scheduled to meet at UFC 145 in April.
“I think that’s going to be the biggest difference in the fight, is my youth, my ambition, my drive, my creativity,” he said.
But despite their differences, Jones hopes to put an end to their feud following their future bout and maintain their relationship on good terms.
“I’d love to have a respectful relationship with him, because actually, deep down, I kind of just liked hanging with the guy,” he said. “After this fight, I just hope that the respect can be restored. Friendship is not necessary, but the respect should be restored.”
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