The Ultimate Fighting Championship returns to the Mile High City for the first time since 1995 with an exciting card on tap for UFC 135 Saturday night at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colo.
In the featured bout, UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones defends his title for the first time against former torchbearer Quinton "Rampage" Jackson.
Here's a closer look:
Jon Jones (13-1) vs. Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (32-8)
Jones, the sport's fastest growing prodigy and arguably its brightest prospect, faces a stern test against "Rampage," one of the most accomplished light heavyweight fighters in history.
Jones, 24, a former amateur wrestler, has taken the mixed martial arts world by storm since his UFC debut in 2008. Wins over Stephan Bonnar, Brandon Vera, Vladimir Matyushenko and Ryan Bader subsequently propelled Jones into title contention.
The Greg Jackson pupil turned in a spectacular performance, battering the legendary Mauricio "Shogun" Rua to win the 205-pound title at UFC 128 this past March.
Despite Jones having only 13 fights under his belt in just three years as a pro, UFC announcer Mike Goldberg was not far off when he proclaimed that Jones was truly wise beyond his years.
Armed with the longest reach in the UFC at 84.5 inches, Jones' blend of dynamic striking and suffocating wrestling is a puzzle that has yet to be solved. The New York native is perhaps most dangerous because of his unpredictability and creativity, which makes him an especially difficult opponent to prepare for.
Jackson, 33, has been actively fighting the best fighters on the planet since he debuted in 1999. The Colin Oyama and Lance Gibson-trained knockout artist made his mark competing for the Pride Fighting Championships, where he defeated the likes of Igor Vovchanchyn, Kevin Randleman, Murilo Bustamante, Chuck Liddell and Ricardo Arona.
In only his second UFC appearance, "Rampage" captured the light heavyweight championship by finishing the UFC Hall of Famer Liddell for the second time. Since that victory, he has vanquished Dan Henderson, Wanderlei Silva, Keith Jardine, Lyoto Machida and Matt Hamill.
It's worth noting that Jackson has only lost twice since his 2005 defeat against "Shogun," a fight he entered with an injured knee. One was a highly controversial decision against Forrest Griffin and the other a razor-thin decision loss to Rashad Evans.
Though Jackson is getting older, his durability and power remains unquestionable. The Memphis native is a major underdog, but he possesses a heavy-hitting style that could put the champion in danger. His significant edge in experience is also a beneficial asset.
Jackson's hands are the perfect recipe to test Jones' chin, while his powerful wrestling and slams could also play a factor. Jones does not possess the best cardio in the division, and Jackson's relentless pressure could wear on him as the fight progresses.
However, Jones is far too dynamic to engage in a slugfest. He will likely utilize his range and kicks to keep the challenger at bay, while surprising him with throws and takedowns when he sees an opening.
"Rampage" has not been stopped since his war with "Shogun" at Pride Total Elimination 2005, and it would be unsurprising to see him absorb five rounds of Jones' diverse attack, though he will likely come out on the losing end of a unanimous decision.
Verdict: Jones via decision
Click the following for a breakdown on the other UFC 135 matchups
Travis Browne vs. Rob Broughton
