The May 23rd UFC 187 that already featured the middleweight clash between Chris Weidman and Vitor Belfort has added a light heavyweight title clash between Jon Jones and Anthony Johnson. Preliminary odds on the bout have Jones a (-315) favorite over Johnson, who is returning at (+235). The over/under sits at 2.5 rounds, with the over paying (-170) and the under at (+130).
The UFC spent most of Feb. 18 explaining the steps they were going to take with regard to drug testing and the overall use of PEDs on the UFC. Taking into account that the light heavyweight champion Jon Jones tested positive for cocaine recently, the announcement of the Johnson fight sends a clear message that a suspension is not in the works for Jones. Jones was fined $30,000 or something like that, but it will be interesting to see how the penalties for Nick Diaz‘ pot use compares.
Jones is going to be facing a tough test in Johnson. Johnson has exploded since coming back to the UFC. His well-documented release from the UFC previously due to issues making welterweight and middleweight competitions, Johnson has fought in light heavyweight and heavyweight rankings, tallying a 9-0 record. In his last outing, he brutalized Alexander Gustafsson, who was considered the number one contender and had been Jones’ greatest challenge to date.
Jones is coming off a win over Daniel Cormier that had been called Jones toughest test. Though Cormier was game throughout, Jones won relatively comfortably and had re-established himself as the kingpin.
Unfortunately for Jones, he seems to be his own worse enemy at times, and his positive drug test tat came to light after the Cormier fight will mean he has some additional pressure heading into this fight. Johnson will not come with any type of shocking game plan, he will be looking to land his big punch that has changed the complexion of a lot of fights. He has faced good strikers and heavy hitters, but he has never faced anyone with the diversity of attack athat Jones is going to show him. When it comes down to it, Johnson may be the most dangerous fighter Jones has faced yet, because he has the type of power that can instantly change a fight, and he has been landing those strikes.
Check out the UFC’s Jon Jones and his “Ultimate 8” moments along his career:
