The highly anticipated heavyweight debut of Jon Jones is just around the corner, and the former longtime light heavyweight champion seems to have made a successful transition to the higher weight class. Jones will face the No. 1-ranked Ciryl Gane for the vacant UFC Heavyweight Title at UFC 285.
Jones has been out of the Octagon for three years, but prior to his time off, he managed to retain his light heavyweight title with a hard-fought win over Dominick Reyes at UFC 247. However, Jones appeared to slow down his pace and intensity in that fight compared to his previous bout with Thiago Santos at UFC 239. That’s why some fans were curious whether he could regain his dominant form in the heavyweight division
Yet, recent footage of Jones’ heavyweight training suggests that he’s ready to unleash his aggressive ground-and-pound skills once again. In a Twitter video, Jones can be seen moving at a fast pace, despite his increased weight, as he executes a low trip that sends UFC heavyweight Walt Harris flying before moving to a control position. Another clip shows “Bones” practicing power punches with speed and precision, indicating that he’s regained his sharpness and power.
Bruh, look at this recent footage of Jon jones sparring. I feel bad for Walt hahaha. pic.twitter.com/L44qIOvHaC
— Sicky does MMA (Jon Jones AND NEW) (@SICKYDOESMMA) February 26, 2023
New footage Jon Jones hitting pads. Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/SMuwPwohIj
— Sicky does MMA (Jon Jones AND NEW) (@SICKYDOESMMA) February 26, 2023
Jones’ upcoming fight at UFC 285 will be even more exciting for fans as he faces Gane, a French fighter who has been on a six-fight win streak in the UFC. The vacant heavyweight title adds more drama to the bout, which could be a historic moment for Jones if he can win a belt in a second division and cement his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
To make the event even more thrilling, longtime rival Daniel Cormier will provide commentary for the fight. Cormier himself moved up to heavyweight in 2018 and defeated Stipe Miocic to become the champion, which adds more context to Jones’ quest to win titles in two weight divisions and surpass Cormier.
As UFC 285 approaches, MMA fans in America are eagerly anticipating Jones’ heavyweight debut and wondering whether he can live up to his reputation as one of the most dominant fighters in the sport’s history. With his recent training videos showing his speed, power, and agility, “Bones” might just prove them right and deliver an unforgettable performance on March 26.