In a paper world, Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier 2 had a case as the best fight in MMA history. Did the real world deliver on Saturday?
Jones, who many believe is the best MMA fighter ever, returned after steeping for essentially two years in a heady brew of suspension and personal problems, all of which are extremely well-documented. At UFC 214, the idea was that he was returning to take what was his, namely the UFC light heavyweight championship and his ranking as the MMA GOAT.
In his way was Daniel Cormier, the current champion whose only pro loss came to Jones. Oh, and they don’t like each other. Genuinely. At all.
If that wasn’t enough, it was only one of three title fights on the evening. The other two saw Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino and Tonya Evinger fight for the vacant women’s featherweight crown, and Demian Maia challenge Tyron Woodley for the welterweight strap.
But there was still more. I can’t even believe it. This was the kind of talent-dense card that can’t be recapped up by one single result or stat line. As such, now more than ever, these are the essential facts. These are the real winners and losers from UFC 214 in Anaheim, California.
For the literal-minded among us, full card results appear at the end.