Jones Vs Reyes: UFC 247 Full Fight Breakdown

Hey fight fans! Let's dive deep into the epic clash between Jon Jones and Dominick Reyes at UFC 247. This fight was a nail-biter, sparking tons of debate about the judges' decision. Whether you thought Jones clearly won or Reyes was robbed, there’s no denying the intensity and skill displayed by both fighters. In this breakdown, we'll dissect each round, analyzing the key moments, strategies, and controversies that made this fight an instant classic.

The Buildup: Expectations and Predictions

Before the fight, the atmosphere was electric. Jon Jones, the reigning light heavyweight champion, was looking to cement his legacy as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. His unparalleled fight IQ, diverse striking, and devastating grappling made him a formidable opponent. However, Dominick Reyes, an undefeated challenger with knockout power and impressive athleticism, was determined to dethrone the king.

Reyes, with his southpaw stance and explosive striking, posed a unique threat to Jones. Many believed that Reyes' speed and power could catch Jones off guard, potentially leading to an early finish. On the other hand, Jones' experience and adaptability were seen as crucial advantages, allowing him to weather the initial storm and impose his will as the fight progressed. Predictions were split, with some favoring Jones' proven track record and others leaning towards Reyes' potential to shock the world. The buildup was filled with intense staredowns, confident words, and the palpable anticipation of a monumental clash.

The discussions leading up to UFC 247 were dominated by the question of whether Dominick Reyes had the tools to solve the puzzle that was Jon Jones. Jones had faced numerous challenges throughout his career, but he always found a way to adapt and overcome. Reyes, however, presented a different kind of threat – one that relied on speed, power, and a willingness to take risks. This contrast in styles and the high stakes involved made the fight a must-see event for MMA fans around the globe. The predictions varied widely, reflecting the uncertainty and excitement that surrounded this highly anticipated matchup.

Round-by-Round Analysis: Key Moments and Strategies

Round 1: Reyes Starts Strong

Reyes came out firing, immediately establishing his jab and using his footwork to control the center of the octagon. His speed and movement troubled Jones early on, landing several significant strikes. Jones, known for his calculated approach, seemed to be gauging Reyes' power and adjusting to his rhythm. Reyes' confidence was evident as he landed a powerful head kick that got Jones' attention. The round clearly belonged to Reyes, who showcased his striking prowess and left Jones with a bloody nose.

Round 2: Reyes Maintains Momentum

Reyes continued to press the action in the second round, utilizing his boxing skills to keep Jones at bay. His combinations were crisp and accurate, finding their mark on Jones' face. Jones, however, started to mix in takedown attempts, signaling a shift in strategy. While he didn't secure any takedowns, the attempts disrupted Reyes' rhythm and forced him to defend. Despite Jones' adjustments, Reyes still managed to land the cleaner, more impactful strikes, maintaining his lead on the scorecards.

Round 3: Jones Begins to Adjust

In the third round, Jones began to find his range and timing. He started landing more frequently with his strikes, particularly his oblique kicks, which targeted Reyes' lead leg. These kicks slowed Reyes down and limited his mobility. Jones also had more success with his wrestling, securing a brief takedown and controlling Reyes against the fence. While Reyes still had his moments, Jones' adjustments were starting to pay off, shifting the momentum in his favor. This round was arguably the closest of the fight, with both fighters having periods of success.

Round 4: Jones Takes Control

Jones took control in the fourth round, effectively utilizing his wrestling and grappling. He secured multiple takedowns and kept Reyes pinned against the cage for extended periods. While Reyes managed to get back to his feet, he was clearly tiring, and Jones' pressure was taking its toll. Jones' ground and pound became more effective, landing several significant strikes from top position. This round showcased Jones' ability to impose his will and control the fight, marking a clear turning point in the contest.

Round 5: A Championship Round

The fifth round was crucial, with both fighters knowing the fight was likely close. Jones came out aggressively, securing an early takedown and maintaining top control. He continued to wear down Reyes with his grappling, landing ground and pound and preventing Reyes from mounting any significant offense. Reyes, however, showed incredible heart, battling back to his feet and landing some desperate strikes in the final minute. Despite Reyes' late surge, Jones' control throughout the round likely secured him the victory in the eyes of the judges. The round ended with both fighters exhausted but having left everything in the octagon.

The Controversy: Judging and Scoring

The judges' decision was met with immediate controversy. While Jones was ultimately awarded a unanimous decision victory, many observers felt that Reyes had done enough to win the fight. The scoring of the first two rounds was particularly contentious, with some arguing that Reyes clearly won both rounds. Judge Joe Soliz's scorecard, which awarded Jones 49-46, drew the most criticism, as it seemed to disregard Reyes' early success. The controversy sparked a wider debate about the subjectivity of MMA judging and the need for more consistent and transparent scoring criteria.

The aftermath of the fight saw a flurry of opinions from fans, fighters, and media members alike. Many felt that Reyes had been robbed of a victory, while others defended the judges' decision, citing Jones' late-round dominance. The debate highlighted the complexities of scoring a mixed martial arts fight, where factors such as striking, grappling, control, and damage all play a role. The controversy surrounding the judging only added to the legacy of this unforgettable fight.

The Aftermath: What's Next for Jones and Reyes?

Following the fight, Jon Jones would relinquish the Light Heavyweight title and move up to Heavyweight. He eventually captured the Heavyweight title, defeating Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 by submission. Dominick Reyes would go on a losing streak after his fight with Jones. The loss to Jones seemed to have a lasting impact on Reyes, as he struggled to regain his form and confidence in subsequent fights. Despite the setbacks, Reyes remains a talented and dangerous fighter, and fans hope to see him return to his winning ways in the future.

The fight between Jon Jones and Dominick Reyes at UFC 247 will be remembered as a classic battle that showcased the skill, heart, and controversy that make MMA so captivating. Whether you agree with the judges' decision or not, there's no denying that both fighters delivered an unforgettable performance. It remains a pivotal moment in both of their careers, shaping their paths and solidifying their places in MMA history.