Rashad picks Jones over Rampage, standing

MMA Interviews caught up with a half dozen top figures in the sport for Jones vs. Rampage predictions. Perhaps most interesting was the fighter who knows both fighters best – Rashad Evans.

“I think that Jon Jones uses his range and his speed to keep Rampage off balance,” Rashad said. “And at the same time using his ability to take Rampage down, to try to impose some of his will. But I think Jon tries to get it done, I think he does it standing up.

“One thing I experienced with Rampage – Rampage has a very strong core. Jon may take him down if he uses his leverage and a lot of his judo, I think that’s probably how he’s going to get him down. But if he just tries to shoot in on him, Rampage may be pretty tough to take down off just a shot.”

Frank Mir: I am picking Quinton.

Vitor Belfort: Rampage his only chance is to knock him out. Jon Jones is the new version of MMA, it is going to be interesting.

Tito Ortiz: Rampage, knockout, first round.

Shogun Rua: 60% Jones, 40% Hashad.

Vinny Magalhaes: I always go with the underdog .. I give it a knockout by Rampage.

Bas Rutten: Godspeed, and party on