Author: Donald Wood

UFC 172: Final Review for Jones vs. Teixeira and Undercard Results

In one of the most exciting fights of the year thus far, light heavyweight champion Jon Jones (20-1) defeated No. 1 contender Glover Teixeira (22-3) via unanimous decision on Saturday night in the main event of UFC 172.
Not only did Jones successfully …

In one of the most exciting fights of the year thus far, light heavyweight champion Jon Jones (20-1) defeated No. 1 contender Glover Teixeira (22-3) via unanimous decision on Saturday night in the main event of UFC 172.

Not only did Jones successfully defend his championship, but there were several other fights on the card that had MMA fans on their feet with excitement. Saturday’s show was undoubtedly worth the price tag.

Here are the results from Saturday’s pay-per-view and a review of the main event.

 

 

Breaking Down Jones vs. Teixeira

There were many fans that expected Teixeira to use his 20-fight winning streak to his advantage on Saturday and give Jones a tougher fight, but the champion’s ability to adapt and overcome is second to none.

Teixeira did not try to out-think his opponent on Saturday but instead leaned on his proven striking ability. The problem was that he was taking too much time setting up for punches, and Jones was able to thwart the attacks.

After Saturday’s fight, Jones spoke to Brett Okamoto of ESPN.com about his game plan against Teixeira and how it changed on the fly:

It was a lot of what we thought it would be. Glover doesn’t always tend to be versatile. We foresaw a lot of things and sure enough, it happened that way. It was a lot of improv. Game plan was to stick takedowns and pick him apart from a distance. I realized he was winding up on his punches so I switched game plans and fought at extremely close range. It worked out great.

With superior wrestling skills and the ability to keep the fight close along the cage and in the center of the Octagon, Jones managed to win each of the five rounds and was the clear winner when the final bell rang.

Teixeira is a great fighter, but he’s not on Jones’ level.

Just as MMAFighting.com’s Ariel Helwani and many other UFC fans have already started looking forward to Jones vs. Gustafsson, the defending champion must immediately shift his focus to his next title defense:

While there is no questioning Jones’ ability to strike with the best in the world or take people down against the best wrestlers in the sport, his biggest strength is his intelligence and ability to adjust on the fly.

Jones will need all of his in-ring I.Q. against another smart fighter like Gustafsson. After proving he was far better than Teixeira, he will be forced to square off against a man who has the ability to beat him.

For Jones, there is no rest after another successful title defense.

 

*Stats via UFC.com.

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

Jones vs. Teixeira: Breaking Down Top Light Heavyweight Contenders After UFC 172

After Jon Jones (20-1) successfully defended his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship at UFC 172 against Glover Teixeira (22-3) via a unanimous decision, his reign of supremacy over the division has reached legendary proportions.
With seven consecutive t…

After Jon Jones (20-1) successfully defended his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship at UFC 172 against Glover Teixeira (22-3) via a unanimous decision, his reign of supremacy over the division has reached legendary proportions.

With seven consecutive title defenses, Jones has taken on every challenger put in front of him and dominated him. Just as it is in every other division, though, there will be several top contenders looking to take the title.

Here is how the light heavyweight division shakes out after a wild night at UFC 172.

 

The No. 1 Contender: Alexander Gustafsson

Now that Jones successfully defended his title, he must shift his focus to the next title defense. As UFC President Dana White announced, via Mike Whitman of Sherdog.com, Alexander Gustafsson will get his rematch for the light heavyweight belt.

Jones and Gustafsson first went head-to-head in September 2013, and after five rounds of brutal back-and-forth action, the defending champion was awarded the decision victory. The fight was named Fight of the Night and awarded Fight of the Year honors as well.

Gustafsson bounced back in his first fight after the defeat and destroyed Jimi Manuwa with a TKO finish. While Jones has been devastating his challengers during his reign with brutal striking, the same can be said for Gustafsson.

With both men willing to do whatever it takes to steal a win in the Octagon, the upcoming battle between Jones and Gustafsson could easily steal the show and win Fight of the Years honors once again.

 

The Title Eliminator Fans Want: Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson

One of the biggest winners from Saturday’s pay-per-view was light heavyweight contender Anthony Johnson. While beating Phil Davis was a huge victory on its own, the fact that it happened in Johnson’s first fight back with the UFC was even more important.

Johnson re-signed with the company in February.

Before he can be considered a favorite to contend for the title, though, he must beat one of the top fighters in the division. With Daniel Cormier scheduled to fight Dan Henderson at UFC 173 and expected to take on the winner of Jones vs. Gustafsson, according to White, the potential bout between Cormier and Johnson is exactly what the division needs.

When a fighter like Jones dominates the division for so long, fans become tired of the futile attempts by the challengers. As we saw against Teixeira Saturday night, it was clear that Jones was far more talented than his opponent.

A battle between Cormier and Johnson would prove just how deep the division is.

As long as Cormier is able to defeat Henderson in May, the possibility of the potential title eliminator taking place as the co-main event for the battle between Jones and Gustafsson should have MMA fans ecstatic about the possibilities.

 

*Stats via UFC.com.

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

Davis vs. Johnson Results: Winner, Highlights and Analysis

In the co-main event of UFC 172, Anthony Johnson defeated former light heavyweight contender Phil Davis via unanimous decision in his first fight since re-signing with the UFC earlier this year.

After the win, “Rumble” thanked Dana White, per MMA…

In the co-main event of UFC 172, Anthony Johnson defeated former light heavyweight contender Phil Davis via unanimous decision in his first fight since re-signing with the UFC earlier this year.

After the win, “Rumble” thanked Dana White, per MMAFighting.com:

Any thoughts that it would be an easy day in the office for Davis were erased in the first round. With both fighters trading strikes, it was Rumble’s power that made the early impression. He dazed Davis with an uppercut and took the first round with his powerful striking, leaving “Mr. Wonderful” bloodied and discouraged.

Johnson continued to be the better-looking fighter in the second round as he stalked Davis down and consistently got the better of the exchanges. Whereas conditioning had been an issue for the former welterweight in the past, it was clear that this was a new version of the promising contender.

With the lead easily in hand, Johnson continued to be the more confident and controlling fighter throughout the third round.

The UFC signed Johnson to a deal in February, according to MMAJunkie Radio, and he made a splash in his first fight back in the Octagon. He was with the UFC from 2007 to 2012 but could never manage to gain much momentum in the title hunt with losses to stars like Vitor Belfort and Josh Koscheck.

After winning six fights in a row across various promotions—including a heavyweight bout against Andrei Arlovski—Dana White and UFC officials bet that Johnson had made strides as a fighter. With a victory over Davis in a marquee position on a pay-per-view card, he proved his worth.

As great as the victory is for Johnson, though, it is equally devastating for Davis.

After losing to Rashad Evans in a title eliminator in 2012 and fighting to a no-contest against Wagner Prado later that year, Davis beat Prado and added victories against Vinny Magalhaes and Lyoto Machida.

Davis was on the ascent before Saturday’s loss and now looks to be squandering his talent as a divisional gatekeeper.

As for what’s next for Johnson after the marquee victory, the perfect solution would be a battle against Daniel Cormier. If D.C. beats Dan Henderson at UFC 175, the potential in-ring masterpiece between Cormier and Johnson would make for a great title eliminator.

While Cormier looks like a man on a mission in the light heavyweight division, Johnson proved against Davis that he will not go down without a fight.

 

*Stats and information via UFC.com.

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

UFC 172: Fight Card and Predictions for Jones vs. Teixeira

As the light heavyweight champion and one of the most dominant stars in the business, Jon Jones (19-1) will defend his title against Glover Teixeira (22-2) in the main event of Saturday’s UFC 172 pay-per-view.
Jones is the pound-for-pound king of…

As the light heavyweight champion and one of the most dominant stars in the business, Jon Jones (19-1) will defend his title against Glover Teixeira (22-2) in the main event of Saturday’s UFC 172 pay-per-view.

Jones is the pound-for-pound king of MMA right now, and he will be the heavy favorite against an unproven talent like Teixeira. While many casual fans don’t know much about the Brazilian fighter, his 20 consecutive wins are nothing to scoff at.

Here is all the vital viewing information for UFC 172, a full fight card and a preview of the main event.

 

Where: Baltimore Arena, Baltimore

When: Saturday, April 26 at 10 p.m. ET

Watch: Pay-per-view (check local cable provider)

Live Stream: UFC.TV (subscription required)

 

 

Jones vs. Teixeira Main Event Preview and Prediction

Jon Jones has won 10 consecutive fights in his career. That includes six straight title defenses against the toughest the light heavyweight division has to offer.

While beating the likes of Rashad Evans, Vitor Belfort and Alexander Gustafsson proved how great Jones is as a champion, he is squaring off with a challenger that has the raw power and skill in the Octagon to pry the belt away from him.

Glover Teixeira has won 20 fights in a row (five in the UFC) and will be looking to cement his status as one of the best in the sport by cashing in on his shot at the light heavyweight title.

The No. 1 contender was asked about what he would do with the belt, and without skipping a beat, Teixeira proved he still had his sense of humor as the fight approached:

Jones understands the magnitude of the situation because he has been to the top of the mountain and currently resides there. The best have not been able to take him down, and he has developed a serious chip on his shoulder.

When asked about his unwavering confidence in and out of the Octagon, Jones told Mike Chiappetta of Fox Sports that he doesn’t mind being a bit arrogant as long as it helps him win fights:

I think I am. I think I am a little arrogant. I think it’s really important. The thing about me I say all the time is, I notice that I’m full of myself and I am arrogant to some degree, but it’s obviously only when it comes to talking about MMA, where literally, I do the wildest stuff. I don’t think I live like a celebrity at all. All my friends are normal people, normal dudes who do the most normal stuff all the time. But when it comes to MMA, there is a big chip on my shoulder. There is a way that I look at myself, and I think it’s really, really important. It’s something I’m not really apologetic for. As I get older and as I win more, I start to embrace it even more. The biggest thing is not to be apologetic for it. I realize it’s a big part of the reason I’m able to perform out there. The moment I let fear seep is the moment the fights start getting closer and closer. So yeah, I think it’s important to be an absolute believer and have that confidence.

It is clear that Jones has supreme confidence in himself. Even NBA analyst Reggie Miller is backing the defending champion:

Jones will need that confidence because Teixeira will not show fear in the main event. He has proven time after time that he is a smart fighter who is willing to take educated risks while pushing the tempo.

Teixeira has a great grasp of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and will counteract much of the wrestling skill that Jones possesses. There is no way to prepare for the unpredictable striking of the champion, but Teixeira has the power in his own hands and feet to devastate Jones standing up.

These two men are extremely well matched, but it will be the experience of Jones in the main event spotlight that gives him the edge. While both men have an incredible amount to prove on Saturday night, Alexander Gustafsson is waiting for them in the next bout, according to Heidi Fang of MMA Fight Corner:

Regardless of who wins the fight, it is clear that the light heavyweight division is the deepest and most entertaining in the sport right now.

Jones has led the resurgence, and he will not lose the title Saturday.

Predicted Winner: Jones via unanimous decision

 

*Stats via UFC.com.

 

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

Jones vs. Teixeira: Predicting UFC 172 Main Event and Entire Fight Card

The excitement for the entire UFC 172 fight card is through the roof, but many mixed martial arts fans are most anticipating the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship match between defending champion Jon Jones and Glover Teixeira.
This will be Jones&rsquo…

The excitement for the entire UFC 172 fight card is through the roof, but many mixed martial arts fans are most anticipating the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship match between defending champion Jon Jones and Glover Teixeira.

This will be Jones’ first fight since the epic five-round war against Alexander Gustafsson in September of 2013, but the champion is riding a 10-fight winning streak. Teixeira is no slouch, though, as he has also won his last 20 fights in a row.

The resulting battle has all the earmarks of an instant classic.

Here is the entire card for Saturday’s pay-per-view, predictions for every fight and a preview of the main event.

 

Breaking Down and Predicting the Main Event

When UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones (19-1) squares off against challenger Glover Teixeira (22-2) on Saturday night in the main event, the defending champion will be pushed to his limit by the hard-hitting style of his opponent.

Jones will have to be at his best to beat Teixeira.

Jones is one of the best wrestlers in the light heavyweight division, but it is his unique mix of striking a grappling ability as well that has made him such a dangerous champion. During his 10-fight winning streak, he has racked up four knockouts, four submissions and two decision victories.

Whether it’s with his lethal elbow strikes or his vicious kicks, Jones can hurt his challengers in so many different ways.

While Jones has the advantage on paper in the title fight, he spoke during the UFC on FOX 11 broadcast about Saturday’s opponent and his key to victory, via FightLine.com:

Glover is a phenomenal opponent with power in both hands, is a great wrestler and hasn’t lost in five years. I am totally up for this amazing challenge. I am confident. My versatility (is key). I have a very unpredictable game. Half the time I don’t know what I’m going to do.

The excitement is through the roof for this main event, and even UFC President Dana White took to Twitter to share his anticipation:

As well as Jones has fought during his run with the title, the epic battle between the champion and Gustafsson proved that there were weaknesses in his defense and offense. With Teixeira showing no fear in the Octagon, Jones will face a fighter coming at him harder than anyone else in the past.

Teixeira is confident in his ability in the ring and lets his hands do the talking. With an incredible mix of accuracy, timing, strength and power, there is no reason to believe Teixeira can’t stand toe to toe with Jones and do serious damage.

With 12 of his 20 consecutive wins coming via knockout, Jones has been put on upset alert.

Jones didn’t get to the top of the mountain without being smart, though, and he understands Teixeira’s advantages standing up. Expect the champion to utilize his elite wrestling skills and take this fight to the ground early and often.

After five rounds of grinding it out on the mat, Jones will walk away with the decision victory.

Predicted Winner: Jones via unanimous decision

 

*Stats via UFC.com.

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

UFC 172: Complete Fight Card and Predictions for Saturday’s PPV

Headlined by the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship main event between defending champion Jon Jones and challenger Glover Teixeira, Saturday’s UFC 172 pay-per-view is shaping up to be one of the best shows of 2014.
The fight card is so much more …

Headlined by the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship main event between defending champion Jon Jones and challenger Glover Teixeira, Saturday’s UFC 172 pay-per-view is shaping up to be one of the best shows of 2014.

The fight card is so much more than the main event, though, as the company has bolstered this PPV in order to draw the fans in. With the battle between Phil Davis and Anthony Johnson co-headlining the show, this is a must-watch event.

Here is all the vital viewing information for UFC 172, a full fight card and a preview of the co-main event.

 

Where: Baltimore Arena, Baltimore

When: Saturday, April 26 at 10 p.m. ET

Watch: Pay-per-view (check local cable provider)

Live Stream: UFC.TV (subscription required)

 

 

Breaking Down the Co-Main Event: Phil Davis vs. Anthony Johnson

While the battle between Jones and Teixeira is stealing all the headlines, one of the most exciting fights of the night will be the light heavyweight bout between Phil Davis (12-1, 1 NC) and Anthony Johnson (16-4).

Both men are fighting for the right to be considered a legitimate championship contender.

For Davis, the road to this point has been tumultuous. After reaching a title eliminator against Rashad Evans, Davis was defeated via unanimous decision and went on to fight to a no-contest in his next bout against Wagner Prado.

Davis beat Prado in the return match and went on to add two victories against Vinny Magalhaes and Lyoto Machida. Despite the recent success, outspoken UFC president Dana White discounted the championship contender.

White told Steven Marrocco of MMA Junkie about his perception of Davis and his lack of focus on long-term goals:

I like Phil, and I don’t want to throw Phil under the bus, but Phil needs to get over that mental hump, and he needs to get on the Internet and f–king check the rankings and see where he’s ranked. He’s one of the best light heavyweights in the world, but he doesn’t come off to me like I’ve got guys (who are) breathing down my f–king neck for fights: ‘I want this fight. I want this, I want that.’

With the odds stacked against him and even the owner of the company making comments, Saturday night’s battle against Johnson in the co-main event is Davis’ chance to prove his worth to the company.

Johnson was re-signed by the UFC in February, and he will be looking to capitalize on the success he found fighting in other promotions (six straight victories). A victory over Davis would be the perfect start to a second run with the company  and begin his ascent back into title contention.

As much as Johnson needs this victory, Davis has the wrestling skills and heavy hands to make his challenger pay and make his boss reconsider his words.

If White was trying to light a fire under Davis, how he reacts to the pressure on Saturday will be a huge test. The stage has been set for Davis to cement himself in the division.

Predicted Winner: Phil Davis via unanimous decision

 

Stats via UFC.com.

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com