Jon Jones is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic figures in the world of mixed martial arts. With a career spanning over a decade, Jones has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning himself a reputation as one of the greatest of all time. From his early days as a young and ambitious fighter to his current status as a UFC legend, Jones' journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most significant highlights of Jon Jones' career, including his title wins and most devastating knockouts.
The Rise to Prominence
Jones' career in the UFC began in 2008, and it didn't take long for him to make a name for himself. With his unique blend of wrestling, boxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills, Jones quickly racked up an impressive string of victories, earning himself a title shot against Mauricio Rua in 2011. At just 23 years old, Jones became the youngest champion in UFC history, defeating Rua via TKO in the fourth round.
Title Reigns and Defenses
Over the course of his career, Jones has held the light heavyweight title on two separate occasions, with his first reign lasting from 2011 to 2015 and his second reign beginning in 2018. During his time as champion, Jones successfully defended his title on multiple occasions, defeating notable opponents such as Rashad Evans, Lyoto Machida, and Glover Teixeira. His most recent title defense came in 2020, when he defeated Dominick Reyes via unanimous decision.
Best Knockouts
Jones is known for his devastating knockout power, and he's had his fair share of highlight-reel finishes throughout his career. Some of his most notable knockouts include:
Lyoto Machida (UFC 140): Jones' guillotine choke knockout of Machida is widely regarded as one of the greatest submissions in UFC history.
Mauricio Rua (UFC 128): Jones' TKO victory over Rua marked the beginning of his first title reign and showcased his incredible striking ability.
Daniel Cormier (UFC 214): Jones' head kick knockout of Cormier is one of the most memorable moments of his career, and it marked a major turning point in their long-standing rivalry.
A Legacy Cemented
Throughout his career, Jones has consistently demonstrated his dominance in the octagon, earning himself a reputation as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. With a record of 25-1-0, Jones has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with, and his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of fighters. As he looks to the future, one thing is certain: Jon Jones will always be remembered as one of the greatest champions in UFC history.
In conclusion, Jon Jones' career has been a remarkable journey, marked by incredible title wins, devastating knockouts, and a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual observer, it's impossible to deny the impact that Jones has had on the world of mixed martial arts. As he continues to compete at the highest level, one thing is certain: Jon Jones will always be a name to watch in the UFC.
