Throwback Video: Jon Jones vs Stephen Bonnar Brings the Whole Crowd to Their Feet

Jon Jones is inarguably one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. In his 12 years of MMA career, Jones has never lost a single fight. He remains undefeated and undisputed UFC light heavyweight champion of the world.

After an incredible victory against Andre Gusmao in his UFC debut, Jones faced Stephen Bonnar in his second fight. The fight also marked Jones’ 8th professional fight. Bonnar was coming into the match with consecutive victories to his name and looked confident to take down a relatively inexperienced Jon Jones. Both the fighters faced each other at UFC 94 in Las Vegas.

Jon Jones proves the MMA world wrong

Jon Jones faced a much more experienced Stephen Bonnar, however, he left an impact in the entire division with an incredible performance against Ultimate Fighter Season 1 Runner-Up.

Both the fighters gave absolutely everything inside the octagon, in one of the most memorable matches of UFC’s history. In the breakdown of the fight, Jon Jones secured a decision victory with the scorecard, 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28. However, the scorecards do not reflect the brutality that occurred inside the octagon.

Jones looked impeccable in his striking, exceptional in wrestling and showed incredible move set, in just his second match for UFC. Additionally, he grabbed the attention of the entire MMA world and took the light heavyweight division by storm. Bonnar exhibited a brilliant performance and looked equally competent for the dangerous Jon Jones. He threw many significant strikes throughout the three rounds of the match. However, Jones was always a step ahead.

Some of the memorable moments from the match include Jones slamming Bonnar on the mat, which made the whole crowd stand on their feet. There were spinning wheel kicks, punches, and almost everything from Jon Jones’ deadly arsenal of moves. Jones also executed some of the most beautiful takedowns in UFC and established his name as a dangerous 21-year-old prospect for the UFC light heavyweight championship.

Jones will stick to his brilliant performances to become the youngest UFC champion since the company instituted weight classes. It was the start of a dangerous fighter who would soon take over the entire division, and former champions.

What’s next for Jones?

Jon Jones will face Dominick Reyes for the UFC light heavyweight championship at UFC 242. Reyes is undefeated in his MMA career so far, so it’s going to be a tough fight for both the fighters. The fight will also mark Jones’ third title defense, in his second championship reign.