5 Lessons Learned From Jon Jones' Absence

2. Jones Will Fight At Heavyweight

Jon Jones is destined for Heavyweight, just look at him: he's not HUGE for 205, but isn't a middleweight either (though we can wish for Weidman Vs. Jones, can't we?). Known to walk around at +220 between fights, Jones' weight cut leaves him gaunt at weigh-in and less effective on fight night, yet he's still performed outstandingly. Jones physique will only withstand 205 for so much longer. And it seems he's utilized his time off to prep for the inevitable move up. His grappling and wrestling have been bolstered by a new strength and conditioning program. So while Jones isn't a power puncher yet, he has the musculature to bulk up and contend at Heavyweight in the near future. Jones boasts the widest wingspan in the UFC, even outreaching Stefan Struve. Jones is also fairly tall at 6' 4". He's not as angular anymore, and even his legs have filled out. His stature would match well with most current UFC Heavyweights. The only knock against Jones has been his questionable endurance. Even in fights Jones has dominated, he's shown from time to time pacing his blitzes in later rounds. Granted, some of these were Championship wars with Gustaffson and Cormier, but there's room for improvement. Now I doubt Jon Jones doesn't have the lungs for 25 minutes. He's been in more five round fights than any active champion not named Jose Aldo. Likely, dehydration and a restricted diet during fight week could be a thing of the past and just what Jones needs to be a two-division champion.
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Eli Samuel is a NYC-based writer, producer, and creative consultant. His work is hosted at DiscourseFilm.com