“Rock papers scissors?” Jon Jones offers hilarious option to settle most-controversial loss against Dominick Reyes

UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones mocks old rival Dominick Reyes for constantly claiming that he won the fight at UFC 247.

“Rock papers scissors?” Jon Jones offers hilarious option to settle most-controversial loss against Dominick Reyes

Jon Jones responds to Dominick Reyes's claims (via Imago/MMA Fighting)

Jon Jones is one of the most accomplished UFC fighters in history, dominating opponents and defending his title more than anyone else. However, his fight against Dominick Reyes remains controversial, as many believe Reyes should have won the decision. Despite the debate, Jones retained his title, but the fight continues to spark discussions among MMA fans and analysts.

Jones defeated Reyes at UFC 247 via unanimous decision, a result that many fans found controversial and unexpected at the time. Years later, Reyes continues to insist he won the fight, frequently discussing his perspective in interviews and sharing his thoughts publicly. Recently, Jones subtly mocked Reyes by leaving a sly comment under an interview clip, showing his lack of interest. 

Dominick let’s play a game of rock, paper, scissors. Best two out of three. That way you can finally possibly beat me at something.

Jon Jones via Instagram 

In multiple interviews, Reyes has broken down the fight round by round, pointing out moments where he pressured Jones effectively. He has argued that despite Jones’ late-fight surge, his own early dominance should have been enough to give him the win. He has mentioned that Jones’ takedown attempts were mostly ineffective and didn’t impact the fight’s outcome significantly

Jones, known for his dominance, rarely faced such a close and controversial decision. The fight exposed vulnerabilities in his game, particularly in striking exchanges and movement. Despite officially winning, the criticism and doubts surrounding the fight could have affected him. Many had predicted that fight would have contributed to his decision to move up to the heavyweight division. 

How Dana White reacted to the Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes fight 

Dominick Reyes started strong at UFC 247, outstriking Jon Jones in the first three rounds with aggressive punches, body shots, and movement. Jones struggled early but adjusted in rounds four and five, using kicks, clinch work, and forward pressure. Reyes slowed down late, allowing Jones to take control, leading to a controversial unanimous decision victory.

Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes controversial fight
Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes controversial fight (via MMA Fighting)

Many experts such as Joe Rogan had mentioned the third round being the controversial and deciding factor. Following the fight, UFC CEO Dana White was asked about his opinion. White had Reyes winning the bout but shared how things like sds are common in UFC. 

The scoring was all over the map. Going into the last round, I had Dominick Reyes 3-1 going to the last round. My kids are terrorizing me that the fix is in, ‘How could this happen, Dad?, Reyes won that fight.’ People have it all over the place. But the reality is, who gives a sh*t? We’re not judges. None of us are judges, the judges called the fight, and that’s that.

Dana White via UFC 247 post-fight presser 

The UFC boss and Jones have had a complex relationship marked by both admiration and tension. White respects Jones’ talent, but has clashed with him over contract disputes, legal issues, and negotiations. Despite past conflicts, White recognizes Jones as one of the greatest fighters and continues to promote his legacy.

Despite that close fight, White always pushed the narrative that Jones has never lost a fight. ‘Bones’, on the other hand, believes he clearly won the fight against Dominick Reyes at UFC 247, emphasizing his strong finish. Jones saw the controversy as overblown and remains confident the judges made the right decision in awarding him victory.

Jon Jones’s history with controversial fights 

Other than the Dominick Reyes fight, Jon Jones has been involved in multiple controversial fights and endings throughout his career. A split decision win against Thiago Santos also raised questions. His legendary battle with Alexander Gustafsson was closer than expected, and some disputed the scoring.

Jon Jones's controversial career
Jon Jones’s controversial career (via X)

Another controversial moment was his only official loss, a disqualification against Matt Hamill due to illegal 12-6 elbows. His rematch with Daniel Cormier initially ended in a knockout win, but was overturned to a no-contest for PED usage. Jones’ career is filled with dominance, bad judging decisions, disqualifications, and overturned results that have fueled controversy.

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