The fight between Jon Jones and Rashad Evans could possibly be the most intriguing UFC title fight of the year.
What was once a strong bond has now become a bitter rivalry, which both of them will look to settle at UFC 145 on April 21.
Jones and Evans were training partners and good friends at one time. And both were willing to avoid getting in the way of each other as they both rose through the light heavyweight division.
However, all that would change immediately as Evans would be removed out of the title picture, suffering an injury and allowing Jones to replace him.
Since then, Jones has begun his meteoric rise to the top of the 205-pound division, as well as making a strong case as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the sport.
Meanwhile, Evans has remained in the shadows and was forced to watch his former pupil steal the spotlight, while quietly affirming his stance as the No.1 contender.
But since being out of action for an extended period of time, Evans has returned to top form and is in arguably the best shape of his career.
While Jones has been dismantling the competition, Evans has sat back and observed the 24-year-old with great detail and every intention of defeating him and recapturing the title. The former UFC light heavyweight champion has stated his reasons for disliking Jones and has done everything possible to get inside his head.
As far as skills, it’s doubtful Evans can match-up with Jones. However he compensates for it with his experience from training with the champion.
Their history is well-documented and is the biggest factor heading into their bout, which could very likely determine the winner. Jones is favored to retain the title, but he might have to do it facing some adversity as Evans presents himself as a formidable challenge and the one opponent who could finally test him.
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com