Jon Jones's Best Moments: 2019 Highlights!

Hey guys! Let's dive into some epic Jon Jones highlights from 2019. If you're a true MMA fan, you already know that Jon "Bones" Jones is a name synonymous with greatness, controversy, and unparalleled skill inside the octagon. 2019 was another year where Jones reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the best to ever do it. So, let's get into it and relive some of those memorable moments.

The Return of the King: Jones vs. Smith

In March 2019, Jon Jones faced Anthony Smith at UFC 235. This fight marked Jones's continued reign after reclaiming the light heavyweight title. Anthony Smith, known for his toughness and resilience, presented a challenge. But Jones was on a mission to prove that he was back and better than ever. The fight showcased Jones's strategic brilliance. He maintained control from start to finish, using his superior wrestling and striking to keep Smith at bay.

Jones's ability to mix his attacks was on full display. He seamlessly transitioned between striking combinations and takedowns, keeping Smith guessing. Smith showed incredible heart, weathering the storm and making it to the final bell, but Jones was clearly the dominant fighter. This victory solidified Jones's position at the top of the light heavyweight division and set the stage for more exciting matchups to come. One of the most impressive aspects of Jones's performance was his composure. Despite Smith's attempts to create openings, Jones remained calm and calculated, never allowing Smith to gain any real momentum. It was a masterclass in control and precision, reminding everyone why Jones is considered one of the greatest of all time.

Facing the Grinder: Jones vs. Santos

Then came July 2019, and UFC 239 where Jon Jones faced Thiago Santos. This fight was intense. Santos, a powerful striker with a knack for upsets, was determined to dethrone the champ. What made this fight particularly compelling was that Santos had a compromised knee early in the bout, which severely limited his movement. Despite this significant handicap, Santos pushed Jones to his absolute limit, making it one of the toughest fights of Jones's career.

Santos's power was evident from the opening bell. He landed several significant strikes that caught Jones's attention and forced him to respect Santos's capabilities. Jones, known for his adaptability, had to adjust his game plan. He couldn't rely on his usual striking dominance and had to be more cautious in his approach. The fight went the distance, with both fighters having their moments. Ultimately, Jones won by split decision, but it was a highly controversial outcome. Many fans and analysts believed that Santos had done enough to earn the victory, given his injury and the fact that he was able to challenge Jones like no one else had in recent memory. This fight highlighted Jones's grit and determination. Even when faced with adversity, he found a way to win, albeit in a very close and contentious manner. It also showed that Jones was not invincible and that there were vulnerabilities in his game that future opponents could potentially exploit. Despite the controversy, the fight added another layer to Jones's legacy, demonstrating his ability to overcome challenges and emerge victorious, even when not at his absolute best.

Key Takeaways from Jones's 2019 Run

So, what did we learn from Jon Jones's 2019 fights? First off, his versatility is unmatched. He can adapt to any opponent and find a way to win. Whether it's a striker like Santos or a tough, resilient fighter like Smith, Jones has the tools and the fight IQ to come out on top. Secondly, his mental fortitude is incredible. He doesn't get rattled under pressure and always maintains his composure, even when things get tough. Lastly, his skillset is just on another level. His wrestling, striking, and grappling are all top-notch, making him a threat wherever the fight goes.

Dominance and Control

Throughout 2019, Jones consistently showcased his ability to dominate and control his opponents. In the fight against Anthony Smith, Jones demonstrated a clear game plan, using his reach and wrestling to dictate the pace. He kept Smith at a distance, preventing him from landing any significant strikes, and controlled the grappling exchanges. This level of control allowed Jones to wear down Smith and secure a unanimous decision victory. Similarly, in the fight against Thiago Santos, Jones adapted his approach to counter Santos's striking power. While Santos managed to land some significant blows, Jones remained composed and strategically mixed in takedowns to disrupt Santos's rhythm. This ability to control the fight's narrative, even against a dangerous opponent, underscored Jones's mastery of the sport.

Overcoming Adversity

One of the defining characteristics of Jon Jones's 2019 campaign was his ability to overcome adversity. The fight against Thiago Santos exemplified this trait. Santos, despite fighting with a compromised knee, pushed Jones to his limit and exposed vulnerabilities in his game. Jones faced significant challenges during this fight, including absorbing powerful strikes and dealing with Santos's unpredictable movement. However, Jones demonstrated resilience and mental toughness, adjusting his strategy and finding a way to secure a victory, albeit a controversial one. This ability to persevere through difficult circumstances and emerge victorious highlighted Jones's championship mentality and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time.

Strategic Adaptability

Another key aspect of Jones's 2019 performances was his strategic adaptability. In both fights, Jones demonstrated the ability to assess his opponent's strengths and weaknesses and tailor his game plan accordingly. Against Anthony Smith, Jones utilized his reach and wrestling to maintain control and prevent Smith from launching his offensive attacks. Against Thiago Santos, Jones adjusted his approach to mitigate Santos's striking power, incorporating takedowns and grappling exchanges to disrupt Santos's rhythm. This strategic adaptability allowed Jones to remain one step ahead of his opponents and secure victory, even when facing unforeseen challenges. Jones's ability to analyze and adjust his strategy on the fly is a testament to his fight IQ and sets him apart from many of his peers.

Final Thoughts

2019 was a defining year for Jon Jones. He faced tough opponents, overcame challenges, and continued to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting into the sport, these highlights are a must-watch. They showcase the incredible talent, skill, and mental fortitude that make Jon "Bones" Jones a true legend.