Let me make one thing clear; I've never been a Jon Jones fan. Not when he started, and not now. He's an immature fighter, both physically and mentally. While he is incredibly athletic and talented, he's got a lot of growing up to do.
Sure it's normal for trash talking to ensue to hype a fight or for self motivation, if that's what you need. However, his ego has more than gotten in the way of his career.
While Jones continues to sit at the top of the 205 heap, there's still a lot of improvement that needs to happen.
I have, however been a big fan of Vitor Belfort for a long, long time. While the Phenom was very young and immature at one point in time, he's come a long way, and fought through many adverse circumstances to make his way back in to MMA relevancy.
Post UFC 152, I think Jones may turn a new leaf. I just hope it's not a temporary change.
Having left the octagon Saturday night with a busted up arm, and somewhat of a bruised ego, Jones finally got what he deserved; a good humbling. I can't remember the last time Jones was so soft spoken, and, well, selfless. He gave Belfort a lot of credit, considerably more than I think he's given any other fighter. Not only has Jones never been hurt in a fight, but nobody has been able to hang with him until now.
Vitor's fatal flaw, though, was continuing to pull guard and try for the armbar. Sure, he kept getting really close, but the attempts kept getting riskier every time... until he finally got caught. Still, victory came at a steep price for Jones, and I'm sure it'll be a win he won't soon forget.
That's really about all I have for this one. While I really wanted to see Belfort crowned champ, I walked away satisfied, seeing and hearing the psychological effect he had on Jones.
We'll see how Jones responds in the coming weeks...
