Controversies aside, Jon Jones is almost objectively the most dominant fighter in MMA history. At UFC 247 in Houston Saturday night, he hoped to build upon that against Dom Reyes.
ROCKED! --@DomReyes puts the champion down early in R1! #UFC247 pic.twitter.com/rYykH9nPQb
— UFC (@ufc) February 9, 2020
Jones defended his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship against the undefeated challenger Reyes, and got more than he could have bargained for. Reyes nearly knocked him off to become champion.
The challenger pushing the pace in R4!
— UFC (@ufc) February 9, 2020
-- The LHW gold hangs in the balance! #UFC247 pic.twitter.com/IqnJzawvMY
From the opening bell all the way to the close, Reyes pressed forward and pressured the longtime champ. Throwing leather at Jones to avoid the clinch, and standing up after takedowns, Reyes had one of the most impressive performances of all-time against Jones. However, Jones was able use his range, and occasional takedowns to help secure at least two rounds and take a razor-thin victory.
WE GO THE FULL 25 MINUTES. WHAT. A. FIGHT.
— UFC (@ufc) February 9, 2020
Has Reyes done enough to dethrone Jones? Sound off! #UFC247 pic.twitter.com/iO9kiCHaai
A 49-46 scorecard that contributed to a unanimous decision gained a ton of criticism, and helped Jon Jones continue his historic reign. Reyes' performance will long be remembered, and if anything, improved his stock significantly. The two shook hands after the bout.
Respect earned. --@JonnyBones @DomReyes #UFC247 pic.twitter.com/Qa4N05W7nH
— UFC (@ufc) February 9, 2020
You can see our full, live coverage of UFC 247 at this link. We also did a main event watch-along, which you can check out at this link.
