Some call him cocky. Others use words such as “arrogant” or “fake”.
Call him what you will but make no mistake — 26-year-old Jon Jones is the pound-for-pound best MMA fighter in the world.
This Saturday night, Jones, the UFC light heavyweight champion, faces Swedish striker Alexander Gustafsson in what seems to be another overmatched opponent. But is he?
Many fans and observers seem to be looking past Gustafsson so let’s breakdown what each man has to do to be victorious.
Alexander Gustafsson (15-1)
Gustafsson is somewhat an enigma to us. Although he has the height advantage on Jones he certainly doesn’t matchup to the champions enormous reach advantage (Jones’ reach is 84 inches as opposed to Gustafsson’s 76 inches).
He did have impressive showings against Shogun Rua and Thiago Silva, although both fights lacked a finish from “The Mauler”. In truth, Jones beats Gustaffson almost anywhere except for one area — KO power.
Gustafsson has incredible footwork on his feet and uses his tall frame to keep his opponents on the end of his punches. Unfortunately for Gustafsson, Jones can play that game better than anyone. The only way we see Gustafsson having any sort of shot at becoming the champion on Saturday is if he’s able to land a huge uppercut or counter right hand to separate Jones from his senses. If he cannot do so he has absolutely no chance of winning a ground-wrestling battle against a grappler with the capabilities of the UFC light heavyweight champion.
Jon Jones (18-1)
After dismantling everyone’s favorite loud mouth, Chael Sonnen, with ease, Jones continues to impress us with his incredible ability to control the fight whereever it goes. His elbows are devastating, his submissions are suffocating and his wrestling is top shelf. Not to mention he’s just about the biggest light heavyweight we’ve ever seen.
For “Bones” to retain his title against Gustafsson, it’s quite simple — take. him. down. We’re sensing that Jones wants to prove naysayers wrong who say he doesn’t quite have the punching power by standing with Gustafsson. Although he may be playing a dangerous game, look for Jones to take his opponent down with ease if the heat of standing and trading becomes to high for the champ.
The Bottom Line
According to Bodog, Jones (-900) is a huge favorite against Gustafsson (+550), and rightfully so. No one has been able to withstand the punishment and sheer skill Jones brings to the octagon as of yet and we don’t expect Gustafsson to be the first.
Zachary Hutton is the lead boxing writer and an MMA contributor for CraveOnline Sports. You can see what he’s up to at his band’s website myunclethewolf.com or also subscribe on Facebook.
