Fighters Only

Issue 055

November 2009

Jon ‘Bones’ Jones is one of the most exciting, young, up-and-coming fighters in the UFC today. A former wrestler, the 6’4” all-rounder has been wowing fans with his blend of unorthodox strikes and high-amplitude throws. Most amazing is that Jones, a 22-year-old New York State native, didn’t start training MMA until 2008.

STATISTICS

Name Jon ‘Bones’ Jones

Age 22

Height 6’4”

Category Light Heavyweight

Record 9-0-0

Fighting Style Kickboxing / Wrestling

Fights out of Endicott, New York

Active since 2008

A promising college wrestler, Jones left behind his academic and athletic aspirations when he learned he would become a father. Finding an alternative in MMA, he has since devoted himself to becoming a truly well-rounded fighter and has wins to his name by way of KO, TKO and submission.

Perhaps most amazing is that Jones went from being a complete novice in the sport to a UFC main-card fighter in just over one year. The UFC matchmakers have given him no easy fights – his first test was against Renzo Gracie-trained Andre Gusmao, an imposing Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt with knockout power. Jones blew through him and gave fans a taste of his unusual, mostly self-taught style, which includes spinning elbows and kicks, flying knees and huge throws.

Since then, Jones has remained undefeated and beaten the likes of the durable and dangerous Stephan Bonnar and the formidable wrestler Jake O’Brien. Jones trounced Bonnar, dropping him with a spinning back elbow that had UFC head matchmaker Joe Silva literally jumping out of his chair with excitement. A second-round submission over O’Brien showed that Jones is an exciting prospect with a bright future ahead of him.

Reach

Owner of the longest arms in UFC history, Jones’ lanky frame means he boasts an 84.5” reach, perfect for picking opponents off at range.

Elbows

Jones has surprised more than a couple of his opponents by just how effective his elbow attacks are. He likes to set his elbows up with feints or other attacks, directing them at his opponent’s head from unusual angles that make them hard to see. His spinning elbows are the most spectacular and powerful.

Footwork

Whereas many wrestlers are flatfooted and struggle to develop good footwork, Jones is naturally light on his feet and moves around the ring with ease. He has developed his style by watching videos of famous fighters such as Muhammad Ali and even martial arts legend Bruce Lee.

CAREER SNAPSHOT

2006

(April) Makes debut, winning in just over a minute and a half.

2006

(April) Fights one week later and gets his first KO.

2006

(April) Six days after winning by KO, picks up his first submission.

2006

(August) After racking up a 6-0 record, joins the ranks of the UFC. Wins via decision.

2009

(January) Convincingly defeats UFC warhorse Stephan Bonnar

2009