We have the battle of the "undefeated light heavyweights"…. kinda. Technically defeated Jon 'Bones' Jones (11-1), will be going up against undefeated Ryan Bader (12-0). Predicted by many, this fight has the potential to be the Knock Out/Fight of the Night.
Ryan Bader has a lot of pressure on him going into this bout as an undefeated underdog. His record proves his power and endurance. Clearing out half his opponents in the 1st round and taking it home in the 3rd with the others. Standup he may not be as flashy as Jones, but he's got quality striking, good combinations and decent power. If his takedowns are powerful enough to get Jones on the ground, his wrestling background will come to play. I could see him controlling Jones on the ground (yes, Jones has wrestling too, but I have yet to see Jones on his back - so I don't know how he'd do). Bader gameplan may be to keep Jones on his back and dominate that way, restricting Jones' standup since its so unpredictable.
Jon 'Bones' Jones, is definitely not all bones, more like massive muscle. Even this LHW isn't weighed down by his size. His quick movements and unorthodox style is something his opponents have a hard time predicting. Jones is able to execute takedowns at will. HIs ruthless striking and violent ground-and-pound has anointed him (by many) the bad-ass and future Light Heavyweight top contended. One thing I'm unsure of is his cardio/stamina, he hasn't fought a minute in the 3rd since '09. But since both he and Bader finish half their victories in the first round, I don't believe that this fight will go past the 2nd. He'll likely want to keep this fight standing to take advantage of his long reach and diverse striking.
For this one, I base my pick on the line. I'm going with BADER VIA KO/TKO
(+225 online @ Diamond Sportsbook)
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