In the main event of UFC 172, Jon Jones (20-1) successfully defended his Light Heavyweight title against challenger Glover Teixeira (22-3). Jones earned his 14th victory inside the the Octagon, with only one loss since coming to the promotion in 2008. The loss ended a 20-fight undefeated streak for Glover, five of which came in the UFC.
Glover was competitive through the opening rounds, but couldn’t gain an advantage over the champ. Unable to consistently score takedowns, the majority of the fight took place standing with Jones outworking and outlanding Teixeira. He repeatedly backed him into the cage and unleashed a mix of knees, elbows and hooks. After five rounds, the challenger wasn’t awarded a single frame by the judges as Jones was awarded 50-45 scores on all three cards.
What was the high point of the fight?
Jones work in-fighting through the latter part of the fight was devastating. He pushed Glover back several times and unleashed with creative and powerful short strikes.
Where do they go from here?
Jones has now extended his record-setting Light Heavyweight championship run to seven consecutive defenses. His next step is scheduled to be a rematch with Alexander Gustafsson. The two first met at UFC 165 where Jones won by a somewhat controversial unanimous decision.
Despite the definitive loss to Jones, Glover is still a top fighter in the division. For his next fight, I’d like to see him against fellow UFC 172 competitor Anthony Johnson who picked up a win over Phil Davis.
Watch it now, never or later?
It was another display of dominance from the very best in the sport. Go watch it.