- Jon Jones is making his long-awaited return as a heavyweight in UFC 285 against Ciryl Gane, and expectations are high as he seeks a second division title.
- Anthony Smith believes Jones may have a tougher fight against Gane compared to Ngannou, as the Frenchman’s speed, power, and variety of strikes on the feet will give Jones more to think about.
- Smith expects intriguing potential heavyweight matchups for Jones, including fights against Stipe Miocic, Curtis Blaydes, and Tom Aspinall, and believes that Jones’ adaptability will make him successful in his new division.
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Jon Jones, who is considered by many to be the best MMA fighter in history, will return to the UFC as a heavyweight at UFC 285.After a three-year hiatus, the 35-year-old is looking to claim his second division title in a fight against Ciryl Gane. Jones has said he wants to fight Francis Ngannou, but Anthony Smith thinks Gane is a tougher opponent because of how fast, strong, and varied his strikes are.
Smith still favors Jones to win the fight due to his superior range, management, speed, and skillset, but acknowledges that Gane may pose unique challenges that Ngannou cannot overcome. While Gane moves similarly to Jones and has a similar striking style, he is more mobile and can threaten with wrestling, making him a dangerous opponent. However, Smith believes that Jones’ wrestling ability will be a key weapon in his matchup against Gane, as it was in his fights at 205 pounds.
Jones has already expressed interest in a future fight against Stipe Miocic, who holds the record for most title defenses in UFC heavyweight history. Smith believes that Curtis Blaydes would also make for an intriguing opponent for Jones, given his high-level wrestling ability, explosiveness, and size. Smith expects Jones to adapt well to his new division, given his size advantage and the difficulties he poses to opponents at 205 pounds.
Even though there might be problems, Smith thinks Jones’s return to the octagon will be one of the most exciting things to happen in recent MMA history, making fans talk and get excited. The Fighter vs. Writer podcast explores Jones’ upcoming fight in depth, discussing his strengths and potential challenges against various competitors.