Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes 2
Why it could happen: Despite being the product of my hypothetical exercise, this a matchup that has a serious chance of happening in 2020.
Whether the UFC decides to book a rematch straight away or the matchmaking brackets in real life end up resembling these results, do not be surprised to Jones and Reyes meet again.
Reyes, of course, has been pushing hard to get another shot at the champion, as he is not short on confidence after their last encounter. And, for what it’s worth, I also suspect that the fans will get behind this matchup a lot more the second time around.
Predicted line: Jones -240, Reyes +190
Thoughts on the fight: Between Jones coming off of a (hypothetical) lackluster win, as well as his previous brushes with danger in and out of the cage, it’s not too hard to see the public and pundits alike questioning Jones’ current standing – hence him coming in as half the favorite he was the first time around.
Don’t get me wrong: We all know that Jones traditionally excels in rematches, as his adjustments and applications are still among the best in the sport. That said, when you consider the amount of tape that accompanies the champion’s miles (as well as the fact that he couldn’t meaningfully take Reyes down), I begin to wonder if Jones is actually the person who is in a better position to game plan.
Sure, Jones may have an undeniable experience edge in championship fights, but Reyes – depending on perspective – was basically able to come within inches of upsetting the arguable greatest in his first five-round appearance.
Now, does that mean that I think Reyes will have the advantage in the later rounds? Of course not.
I do, however, think that we should be careful to not forget how quickly experience can spoil in this game. I’ve yet to officially pick against Jones as an analyst, but my early lean (which, again, I reserve the right to change should this fight become official) is that an upset will be on the horizon in the form of a head kick should these two ever meet again.
Early pick: Reyes by second-round knockout
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