Jon Jones' Last Fight Before UFC Hiatus

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the career of one of the most dominant fighters the UFC has ever seen: Jon 'Bones' Jones. When we talk about Jon Jones' last fight in 2020, we're really looking at a pivotal moment that marked the end of an era, at least for a while. This wasn't just any fight; it was a testament to his incredible skill, his often-controversial path, and the sheer determination that made him a legend. Fans and critics alike were glued to their screens to see what 'Bones' would do next, and this particular bout did not disappoint in terms of action and historical significance. It’s fascinating to break down what happened in that octagon and what it meant for his legacy moving forward. We'll explore the opponent, the stakes, and the performance that left everyone talking. For anyone interested in the history of MMA, understanding this fight is key to grasping the trajectory of one of its most polarizing figures.

The Opponent and The Stakes: Dominick Reyes Steps In

So, who was standing across the octagon from Jon 'Bones' Jones for his last fight in 2020? It was none other than Dominick Reyes. Reyes, at that point, was a rising star with an undefeated record, earning his shot at the light heavyweight title with some truly impressive performances. He was seen by many as the next big thing, the guy who could potentially dethrone the king. The hype around this fight was immense, not just because Jones was defending his belt, but because Reyes presented a genuine, undefeated challenge. Many analysts and fans believed Reyes had the tools to give Jones a run for his money, perhaps even end his reign. The UFC 247 pay-per-view event, held on February 8, 2020, in Houston, Texas, was the stage for this highly anticipated showdown. The air was thick with anticipation – could the 'Devastator' live up to his nickname and become the new champion, or would Jon Jones once again prove why he’s considered one of the greatest of all time? The pressure was on both fighters, but especially on Jones, who had navigated through a sea of contenders for years and had always found a way to win, often in dominant fashion. Reyes, on the other hand, had everything to gain and nothing to lose, a dangerous position for any opponent facing a champion like Jones.

The Fight Itself: A Controversial Decision

When the dust settled after the main event at UFC 247, the fight between Jon Jones and Dominick Reyes was met with significant debate and controversy. From a performance standpoint, Jones did what he often does: he controlled the pace, landed key strikes, and utilized his superior fight IQ to navigate the dangerous moments Reyes brought. He showcased his trademark octagon control, his devastating elbows, and his ability to adapt on the fly. However, Reyes came out strong, particularly in the early rounds, landing some significant shots and making Jones work harder than many expected. He displayed excellent footwork, powerful combinations, and a fearless attitude, seemingly unbothered by Jones's legendary status. The fight went the full five rounds, and while Jones was ultimately awarded the unanimous decision victory, the scorecards were closer than many anticipated. Two judges scored it 48-47 for Jones, while one judge scored it 49-46. This decision sparked a fiery reaction from fans and media alike, with many feeling that Reyes had done enough to earn the title, or at least a draw. The Jon Jones last fight 2020 discussion is inextricably linked to this controversy, as it raised questions about judging in the UFC and whether Reyes’s effective aggression in the early rounds was adequately recognized. It was a fight where Jones retained his championship, but the lingering questions about the scoring left a shadow over the victory and fueled further discussions about his reign. This wasn't a clear-cut, dominant performance that fans had grown accustomed to seeing from 'Bones' in his prime; it was a gritty, hard-fought battle that showcased both the champion's resilience and the challenger's potential.

Round-by-Round Breakdown: What Happened in the Octagon

Let's break down how the Jon Jones last fight in 2020 against Dominick Reyes actually unfolded inside the octagon. The first round was incredibly close, with both fighters landing significant strikes and demonstrating their skills. Reyes came out with a high output, pushing the pace and landing some sharp combinations, even staggering Jones momentarily with a powerful left hand. Jones, known for his ability to weather storms, stayed composed and began to find his rhythm, using his jab and kicks effectively. The second round saw Jones start to impose his will more. He began to land his signature oblique kicks to Reyes's lead leg, slowing him down, and his powerful straight punches found their mark. Jones’s defensive grappling was also on display, stuffing Reyes’s takedown attempts and keeping the fight standing where he felt most comfortable. However, Reyes never quit. He continued to press forward, landing his own effective strikes and showing tremendous heart. The third round was another tactical battle. Jones continued to mix up his striking, using knees and elbows in the clinch, while Reyes was still looking for that big opening. Throughout the middle rounds, Jones's volume and pressure seemed to be wearing Reyes down slightly, but Reyes continued to land clean shots and keep himself in the fight. As the championship rounds (fourth and fifth) arrived, the pace remained high. Jones seemed to land the more impactful shots, including a significant knee that connected cleanly. Reyes, showing incredible championship mettle, continued to fight back, landing his own punches and refusing to be finished. The fight went the distance, and while Jones’s championship experience and subtle control were evident, Reyes’s early aggression and effective striking led many to believe he had done enough to win. The Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes bout at UFC 247 was a prime example of how close championship fights can be and why judging continues to be such a hotly debated topic in MMA. It was a true test for Jones, and while he emerged victorious, it was far from his most dominant performance, setting the stage for what would come next.

The Aftermath: Jones Vacates the Title and Hiatus

Following his controversial win against Dominick Reyes at UFC 247, the landscape of the light heavyweight division shifted dramatically. Instead of continuing his reign and defending against new contenders, Jon 'Bones' Jones made a stunning announcement that sent shockwaves through the MMA world: he was vacating his light heavyweight championship. This decision came as a surprise to many, especially after such a hard-fought victory. The primary reason cited for this move was a dispute with the UFC over his pay, particularly concerning his perceived value and his desire for a new, more lucrative contract. Jones had been the undisputed king of the light heavyweight division for years, defending his title numerous times against the best fighters the division had to offer. This move effectively signaled the beginning of a significant hiatus from the 205-pound division, and indeed, from active competition for a considerable period. The Jon Jones last fight 2020 became the final chapter of his legendary light heavyweight career, leaving a void in the division and sparking speculation about his future. Would he return? If so, in what division? The UFC, eager to keep one of its biggest stars active, began to explore options for Jones, with a move to the heavyweight division becoming a strong possibility. This hiatus wasn't just about stepping away from competition; it was about Jones recalibrating his career, renegotiating his standing within the organization, and contemplating his next monumental challenge. The decision to relinquish the belt was a bold one, underscoring his position as a fighter who demanded respect and fair compensation for his unparalleled achievements.

The Legacy and What Came Next

So, what does the Jon Jones last fight in 2020 signify for his unparalleled legacy in mixed martial arts? Even with the controversies that have shadowed his career, there's no denying his sheer dominance inside the octagon. His victory over Dominick Reyes, though debated, extended his unbeaten streak and underscored his ability to win even when not performing at his absolute peak. This fight marked the end of his second long reign as the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, a division he virtually cleaned out. His subsequent decision to vacate the title and move towards the heavyweight division was a clear indication that he was seeking new challenges and aiming to etch his name further into the annals of combat sports history. This hiatus and title vacation set the stage for an eventual, highly anticipated move to the heavyweight division. It was a strategic decision, allowing him to shed the weight he had struggled to make and face a new set of colossal opponents. His return to the Octagon came years later, at UFC 285 in March 2023, where he submitted Ciryl Gane to become the new UFC Heavyweight Champion, achieving a historic feat by winning titles in two different weight classes. This cemented his status as arguably the greatest fighter of all time, irrespective of the controversies. The Jon Jones last fight 2020 against Reyes, therefore, wasn't just an end to an era; it was a pause before a new, even more ambitious chapter began, proving that 'Bones' was never content to rest on his laurels, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the sport. His journey from light heavyweight king to heavyweight champion is a narrative for the ages, filled with dominance, drama, and undeniable greatness.