UFC 197 has a far more interesting main event than was originally planned.

UFC 197 looks awfully different than it did a few months ago. Back in March Jon Jones was set to contend for the Light Heavyweight title against current champion Daniel Cormier. A bit of time here, some injuries there and all of a sudden UFC 197 Cormier vs Jones became Jones vs Saint-Preux. Now, while many may be a bit bummed by the new main event, the reality is that this match up is just as, if not more, intriguing than the original match up. Jon Jones was a beast before he started taking his training seriously. Now that he’s made some major changes to his training program, Jones is an entirely different animal. Legal troubles aside, when it came to performing inside the cage Jones has always been able to dominate the competition with a mix of technique, fight smarts and bravado. Jones utilizes an awkward yet effective striking style, a strong wrestling game, and natural fight ability to win all of his matches. However, he has a tendency to contend with fighters where they’re strongest. The problem with that is he could bite off more than he could chew if he intends to fight Saint-Preux in a stand up affair. It could be a big mistake if Jones tries to get cocky in this one. Ovince Saint-Preux does have some holes in his game, but he’s athletic and dangerous especially in the opening moments of the fight. OSP has to capitalize on his ability to create chaos in striking exchanges as well as his punching power, an advantage that he holds over Jones. If OSP hopes to win this bout he’ll have to make it ugly and capitalize early before Jones can get comfortable. The problem with that plan is that it’s highly unlikely to happen. Jones will be keeping his distance, pick his shots, then eventually take Saint-Preux to the ground where he’ll finish him with elbows for a TKO victory in the second. Who do you think will come out the victor at UFC 197? Follow Generation Iron MMA on Facebook and Twitter. Also, be sure to share, like, and comment to show your support.

Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.