UFC 145 Fight Card: Keys to Victory for Rashad Evans

Live from the Phillips Arena in Atlanta, GA, UFC 145 will see the long awaited title fight between former light heavyweight champion "Suga" Rashad Evans, and his teammate-turned-rival, current light heavyweight king Jon "Bones" Jones.

Jon Jones has seemed unbeatable in his run to the top. There has not been a moment where he has seemed remotely troubled.

Even against former titlist Lyoto Machida, who was able to land an effective shot to the chin of Bones with his enigmatic karate stylings, Jones remained composed, took over and scored the second round choke-out via standing guillotine.

However, the matchup with Machida gave us a glimpse at what needs to be done to cause problems for Jon Jones: get inside.

Rashad Evans has very technical—sometimes underrated—boxing skills. He has phenomenal wrestling for mixed martial arts, and is extremely quick and agile.

Evans also boasts underrated power in his hands.

Going against the 6'4" champion, Evans will need to get past Jones' lengthy extremities (a staggering reach of 84.5 inches, in case you were wondering) to land the power shots on the inside, mixing up the body and head strikes. This will afford Evans a better chance at scoring takedowns by dropping levels and taking doubles, as shooting in will likely prove ineffective.

Evans will have to be wary of Jones' unorthodox striking, staying away from the kicks and going for takedowns during spinning elbow attempts by Bones.

I believe Suga Rashad's best chance at a finish is feinting a shot to score the big overhand right.

As much a fan of Jon Jones as I am, I see that very overhand by Rashad Evans being the culmination of Jones' title reign.