Jon “Bones” Jones scored an easy win over a mismatched Anthony Smith in an underwhelming main event at UFC 235 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday night.
Jones dominated his opponent as he improved his record to 24-1, 1 NC and retained his light-heavyweight championship.
Understandably concerned more with defending against arguably the greatest fighter in UFC history, Smith (31-14) was totally unable to impose himself on Jones and took a lot of punishment over five rounds before losing his first UFC title challenge in a unanimous judges’ decision.
Jon Jones scored another easy victory at UFC 235 against a mismatched Anthony Smith. Photo: AP
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All three judges scored the bout 48-44 in favour of Jones, who was docked two points by referee Herb Dean in the fourth round following an illegal knee which smashed into the temple of his grounded opponent.
“This MMA thing is hard,” Jones said. “Some days you’ll look amazing. Some days you’re not going to perform at the level you hold yourself to.
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“With that being said, hats off to Anthony Smith. His reputation is known to be so durable, and now I know why his name is ‘Lionheart.’ I’ve never had someone talk to me while I’m hitting them. This guy is so durable. He’s like the terminator,” he added.
Jones said he wants to fight four times in 2019, but wouldn’t be drawn on who his next opponent might be.
Jon Jones celebrates after his win against Anthony Smith. Photo: AP
