Coach breaks down Jon Jones v Henderson: “Jiu-Jitsu can make the difference”

Dan Henderson in photo by Esther Lin

Further cementing his dominance over the light heavyweight division, the young Jon Jones put in a prodding and safe performance outscored Rashad Evans via unanimous decision at UFC 145 last Saturday. Facing his former training partner, the title holder controlled center cage and was the more aggressive.

Now, the champ is going on to face thick-skinned middle-ager Dan Henderson at a location yet to be named. Ricardo Feliciano Pantcho, a CheckMat black belt who works with Henderson on his ground game, offers his opinion on the gentle art’s importance in the bout.

“I feel Jiu-Jitsu can be a great help to Henderson, especially when it comes to control after getting the takedown. If Dan gets him down, with his solid control and ground and pound he’ll be really aggressive. And taking his back would be a good option, as well. Now if Dan lands on bottom, Jiu-Jitsu can help him get back up and even sweep, get atop him,” said Ricardo in analysis, at GRACIEMAG.com’s request.

The trainer took the chance to share his thoughts about Jones’ third title defense. “I feel Rashad should have tried for the takedown more, faked some punches and shot for the legs. He had to time Jones’s attacks and try for the takedown then. But I don’t feel it was a bad fight,” said the CheckMat ace.