Going into the second UFC on Versus event, Jon Jones possessed standing as one of the most hyped fighters in the entire world of mixed martial arts. But unlike some of the heavyweight prospects who rose up the ranks fairly quickly, Jones was receiving a different booking treatment for UFC.
Publicly under the notion that Jones could develop into a legitimately dominant MMA all-star, UFC has refrained from immediately throwing Jones into the mix with Light Heavyweight title contenders, instead pairing him with threatening, non-elite fighters capable of putting his skills to the test. Earlier this year, Jones overcame a tough test in the form of Brandon Vera. Sunday’s card placed veteran Vladimir Matyushenko on the opposing side of the Octagon.
Jones had relied greatly on his explosive power, using a solid combination of takedowns and tosses to put the hurt on his opponents. If he were able to do the same to Matyushenko, a truly powerful individual with years of experience controlling bodies, he would further demonstrate the threat he poses to those at 205.
Results of the card, which also included Yushin Okami vs. Mark Munoz and Takanori Gomi vs. Tyson Griffin, follow:
Rob Kimmons b. Steve Steinbeiss via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Charles Oliveira b. Darren Elkins via submission (armbar) at :41 of Round One
Brian Stann b. Mike Massenzio via submission (triangle choke) at 3:10 of Round Three
Igor Pokrajac b. James Irvin via submission (rear naked choke) at 2:29 of Round One
Matt Riddle b. DaMarques Johnson via TKO at 4:29 of Round Two
Jacob Volkmann b. Paul Kelly via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Takanori Gomi b. Tyson Griffin via KO (punch) at 1:04 of Round One
Jake Ellenberger b. John Howard via TKO (stoppage due to eye injury) at 2:21 of Round Three
Yushin Okami b. Mark Munoz via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Jon Jones b. Vladimir Matyushenko via TKO (strikes) at 1:52 of Round One