Sherdog’s Top 10: Strongest Kickers
C.J. TuttleJun 11, 2014
Kicks are a significant part of the Jon Jones repertoire. | Photo: Dave Mandel/Sherdog.com
Is there any MMA list on which “Bones” would not land?
The reigning Ultimate Fighting Championship 205-pound titleholder has made a living by spending the majority of his fights at a safe kicking distance. The 26-year-old goes to the well often, with more than 60 to 70 percent of his strikes being kicks. Jones does not have tree trunks for legs, but his punishing kicking repertoire has allowed for a prolonged reign in a division of heavy-handed fighters. His abilities have been on full display during contests involving Quinton Jackson, Mauricio Rua and Vitor Belfort, all men who are also decent with their legs.
Jones’ game continues to evolve, which is one of the many reasons watching him fight has become such a pleasure. He seems to have developed a liking for utilizing push kicks to the knees and thighs and has done it so successfully that fighters have questioned their legality. All of this, when paired with his unparalleled reach, makes him one of the toughest fights inside the Octagon.
Number 9 » Maurice Smith