The UFC is always ready and willing to create more marketable stars, to bring more hype and attention surrounding their monthly pay per view events, and their other television offerings. They have succeeded with many in the past, some due to good marketing, and some have come out of seemingly nowhere to come on fire. Jon Jones could very well be the next big thing in the world of UFC, as he has set the promotion a blaze, building up a very strong fan base in the process.
The world began to take notice of Jones during the UFC 94 event, when he was matched up with veteran Stephen Bonnar. Jones won the fight by unanimous decision, although that would make it seem the fight was close. It was not. Jones did not get worn down by Bonnar one bit, and showed an amazing amount of strength and maturity to handle getting through the fight with the wily veteran.
After the Bonnar fight, the hype began, as fans have clamored to see more of Jon Jones in the ring. He is currently 4-1, with the one fight being a loss by disqualification, in a bout which he outright dominated his opponent. Nevertheless, Jones has become a rising star in the UFC, and Dana White has taken notice. Jones is next slated to match up against Vladimir Matyushenko. It is widely expected that Jones will be able to win that fight, and do so easily, which leaves us to wonder if he will be a line for a title shot if he is able to take home that bout.
It is rumored that he could receive a title shot, or at least face the winner of the bout between Rampage Jackson and Lyoto Machida, in order to determine who would get the next title shot. While Jones has certainly impressed, there are a few things he does need to work on before facing off against the big guns, such as a Machida or Jackson. His defense is somewhat suspect, for example, and he also has a propensity to go for some very outrageous, low percentage attacks, which he has happened to land a lot more of than miss.
Chances are that will not keep up forever, but if Jones is to continue to evolve as a fighter, with his athleticism, and the skills he has already displayed, it is not a long shot that we can and will eventually see Jones at the top of his weight class, and as one of the main event options for the UFC. He has the skills, the look, and certainly the support of the fans. What he needs now, is simple, a couple of wins over the biggest names that they have to offer, and then, and only then, will he be considered among the elite. I certainly would not bet against him.
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