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Writer's pictureEric J Herrholz
Nov 102 min read

The Cherry Picker Jonny Bones Jones

FIGHT.TV CHERRY PICKER IS
Jon Bones Jones CHERRY PICKER

Jon "Bones" Jones: Cherry Picker or Strategic Fighter?

Jon "Bones" Jones is often hailed as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. With a record of 27 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no contest, his dominance in the UFC is undeniable1. However, some critics argue that Jones has strategically chosen his opponents to maintain his legacy, labeling him a "cherry picker."

The Case for Cherry Picking

  1. Opponent Selection: Critics point out that Jones has occasionally fought opponents who were either past their prime or not at their peak performance. For instance, his fight against Chael Sonnen, who moved up from middleweight, and against an aging Vitor Belfort2.

  2. Timing of Fights: Jones has been accused of avoiding certain fighters when they were at their most dangerous. For example, he delayed fighting Daniel Cormier until Cormier had already fought several grueling battles3.

  3. Hiatuses and Returns: Jones has taken multiple breaks from the sport, often returning to fight opponents who were not in their prime. His recent return to fight Ciryl Gane after a three-year hiatus is seen by some as a strategic move1.

The Case Against Cherry Picking

  1. Record and Achievements: Jones's record speaks for itself. He has defeated numerous former champions and top contenders, including Mauricio "Shogun" Rua, Lyoto Machida, and Alexander Gustafsson1. His ability to adapt and overcome various fighting styles is a testament to his skill.

  2. Title Defenses: Jones holds the record for the most title defenses in the light heavyweight division. This achievement requires consistently fighting and defeating top-ranked opponents3.

  3. Versatility and Skill: Jones's versatility in the octagon is unmatched. He has won fights via knockout, submission, and decision, showcasing his well-rounded skill set1.

Conclusion

While the debate over whether Jon Jones is a cherry picker or a strategic fighter continues, it's clear that his impact on the sport of MMA is significant. Whether you view his career choices as strategic or opportunistic, there's no denying that Jon "Bones" Jones remains one of the most skilled and successful fighters in UFC history.


What are your thoughts on Jon Jones's career? Do you think his choices were strategic or opportunistic?

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