Jon “Bones” Jones’ dominance was apparent throughout his bout with Rashad Evans. After tons of pre-fight barbs were traded—in the ring, the strike traffic was largely one way.
Aside from eating a couple of big shots, Jones was nearly flawless.
This is no discredit to Evans—he would have handled most light heavyweights last night, but not Jones. Jones did a lot of things well, but if I had to narrow it down to the three that were most impressive, they would be as follows:
Chin
Bones demonstrated that he had a solid chin. Sometimes fighters that are so offensive in constantly bringing pressure don’t test well when they are hit.
Their offense is their best—or only—defense.
Jones proved he isn’t one of those fighters.
Evans clipped Jones with a big right hand and a head kick. Both shots got Jones’ attention, but he quickly regained his wherewithal, and he didn’t panic.
Evans is a good puncher—ask Chuck Liddell. To take a shot from him and remain focused and unfazed was impressive.
Punching Elbows
I have never seen a fighter use their elbows the way Jones did last night. He transitioned from hand-fighting to punching elbows, and they landed flush on Evans’ chin with regularity.
It was yet another dynamic and devastating attack Jones has added to his arsenal.
I give Evans credit: I thought they were going to lead to him being KO’d, but he showed toughness and pride by weathering the storm.
Takedown Resistance
Like a security system to a burglar, sometimes a deterrent to discourage an ill attempt is the best defense or protection.
Jones’ reach, offense and footwork were his ADT. They limited Evans, a master wrestler from trying to take Jones to the ground with regularity.
In fact, he had only two takedown attempts in the entire fight.
Both were snuffed out easily, and Jones still has never been taken to the mat in his UFC career.
Bones will now take on Dan Henderson next, but honestly, I can’t see the outcome being much different.
Bones is that good.
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