Welcome to The Weekly Takedown, Sports Illustrated’s in-depth look at MMA. Every week, this column offers insight and information on the most noteworthy stories in the fight world.
Jon Jones is expected to fulfill the next piece of his fighting destiny Saturday. He’s favored to defeat Ciryl Gane at UFC 285, and a victory would make him the heavyweight champion, a title he has long aspired to attain.
The coronation is a decade in the making. Jones has had too many controversies, erratic behavior and altercations with the law, including a domestic violence arrest, none of which should be ignored. Throughout his highs and lows, the one place where Jones (26–1, 1 NC) remains untouchable is inside the cage. Yes, there is one loss–but that came 13 years ago via a disqualification, meaning the next person to beat Jones will be the first.
