Dominick Reyes, once an undefeated contender, has faced a challenging stretch since his controversial title fight with Jon Jones. Despite his recent struggles, Reyes has been part of several notable and high-stakes bouts that have defined his career. Here are three of the best fights Reyes has been a part of leading up to his matchup with Dustin Jacoby at UFC Louisville.
1. Dominick Reyes vs. Jon Jones at UFC 247
- Event: UFC 247
- Date: February 8, 2020
- Outcome: Jon Jones wins via unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47)
Fight Overview:
This bout was Reyes' first shot at the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Jon Jones, considered one of the greatest fighters of all time, was defending his title against the undefeated Reyes.
Highlights:
- Striking Battle: Reyes showcased his striking skills, consistently landing significant shots on Jones.
- Wrestling Defense: Reyes effectively countered Jones' wrestling attempts, keeping the fight primarily standing.
- Controversial Decision: Many observers believed Reyes won at least three of the five rounds, making the judges' unanimous decision for Jones highly controversial.
Significance:
Despite the loss, this fight elevated Reyes' profile significantly. His performance against Jones was widely praised, and it demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level. The bout remains one of the most talked-about fights in recent UFC history due to its contentious decision.
2. Dominick Reyes vs. Jiri Prochazka at UFC Vegas 25
- Event: UFC Fight Night: Reyes vs. Prochazka
- Date: May 1, 2021
- Outcome: Jiri Prochazka wins via second-round KO (spinning back elbow)
Fight Overview:
After his losses to Jon Jones and Jan Blachowicz, Reyes faced the rising star Jiri Prochazka in what turned out to be an intense and memorable battle.
Highlights:
- Back-and-Forth Action: The fight was a thrilling back-and-forth affair with both fighters having their moments.
- Brutal Finish: Prochazka knocked out Reyes with a spectacular spinning back elbow in the second round, leaving Reyes faceplanted on the canvas.
- Fight of the Night: The bout earned Fight of the Night honors, showcasing the high-level striking and heart from both competitors.
Significance:
This fight, although a loss for Reyes, was a testament to his toughness and willingness to engage in a war. It also highlighted Prochazka's ascent in the division, who went on to win the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship in his next fight.
3. Dominick Reyes vs. Chris Weidman at UFC Boston
- Event: UFC on ESPN 6: Reyes vs. Weidman
- Date: October 18, 2019
- Outcome: Dominick Reyes wins via first-round KO
Fight Overview:
Reyes faced former UFC Middleweight Champion Chris Weidman, who was making his debut in the light heavyweight division. The fight headlined the event at the TD Garden in Boston.
Highlights:
- Quick Finish: Reyes knocked out Weidman in the first round with a powerful punch, showcasing his knockout power.
- Dominant Performance: The fight was one-sided, with Reyes decisively finishing the former middleweight champion.
- Fight of the Night: The performance earned Reyes a Fight of the Night bonus, further boosting his reputation.
Significance:
This victory solidified Reyes as a top contender in the light heavyweight division and earned him a title shot against Jon Jones. It was a crucial win that demonstrated his striking prowess and ability to finish fights quickly.
Dominick Reyes has been part of some of the most memorable and high-stakes fights in the UFC's light heavyweight division. His battles against Jon Jones, Jiri Prochazka, and Chris Weidman have defined his career and showcased his skills and toughness. As he prepares to face Dustin Jacoby at UFC Louisville, these fights remain significant highlights of his journey in the UFC.
