Filed under: UFC
When Vladimir Matyushenko was named as the next opponent for the surging Jon Jones for UFC on Versus 2, the announcement was met with a resounding thud. Many fans and media members believed Jones, who was coming off an impressive win over Brandon Vera, would draw a bigger name as he continues his ascent up the light-heavyweight ladder.
While Matyushenko may lack a little in the flash department, the reality is that he has proven himself to be a tough out for anyone, and is a practical test for the ever-improving Jones on Sunday night (the event airs on Versus at 9 pm ET).
Most likely, when the UFC put the matchup together, they realized that Jones needed to be tested by a rugged veteran who had been in all sorts of situations, one that would challenge him and force the rising star into moments of adversity.