MMA writers, including me, were perplexed by the UFC’s decision to bring Vitor Belfort in to face Jon Jones for the light heavyweight title.
The Brazilian hadn’t fought at that weight class in years, and even back in his prime, he didn’t have the best record at 205. His title win against Randy Couture in 2004 only came about due to an unfortunate cut to Couture’s eye, and in the next match, “the Natural” beat Belfort soundly.
Now at 35, what sense did it make to pit him against the young, irrepressible, Jones?
Considering the tenacity with which he fought last Saturday, it made every sense in the world.
Here are three reasons why the fight exceeded all expectations.