UFC 145 Post-Fight Press Conference: Jon Jones Reveals Character in Reaction

In UFC 145, Jon Jones proved himself as the better fighter and man.

Leading in to Saturday night’s showdown, both Jones and Rashad Evans attacked each other’s character in the press. It was Jones, though, who revealed maturity in the rivals’ post-fight press conference.

Jones won a fight fueled by hate, but he sure didn’t show it. Despite absolutely dominating him, the light heavyweight champion gave Evans credit, saying (via UFC.com):

"

I would totally say that Rashad has been my toughest fight to date. I think a lot of it is how talented and awesome of a fighter he is, and a lot of it came from my slight insecurity fighting Rashad. He did big brother me a few times when we used to work out together before and having that in the back of my head made me more hesitant. I really had to fight myself in this fight as well as fighting Rashad Evans.

"

He didn’t just stop there, though. Jones not only showed respect to a fighter that verbally ripped him apart prior to the match, but he also displayed an effort to reconcile. He continued saying:

"

I have a lot of thinking to do about this situation. I hope to rekindle some communication with Rashad, and I hope we can do that in private. There is a lot of emotion between us that can lead to a friendship. It's very easy to get along with Rashad…he's fun to hang out with.

"

Despite Jones’ compromising tune, Evans wasn’t interested in a renewal of their friendship. After the bout, the fallen fighter said in an interview with Fuel TV that, “I still don't like him. He fought a good fight and I have respect for him as a fighter...but we will fight again.”

Jones sure didn’t sound like the cocky combatant that Evans attempted to make him out to be. Instead, the 24-year-old showed maturity beyond his years. UFC’s most gifted fighter continues to impress.

David Daniels is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report and a syndicated writer.

Follow @TheRealDDaniels