UFC 140 Results: 4 Reasons Why Jon Jones Should NOT Move to Heavyweight

Jon Jones has done so well at light heavyweight that talk of him moving to heavyweight is only natural.

However, such talk is also premature.

It's far too early for Jones to move up to heavyweight now or anytime in 2012 (or even in 2013 perhaps).

Why shouldn't Jones seek out greener pastures at heavyweight?

That's part of the reason; the pastures aren't necessarily greener above 205 pounds.

He Still Has Fights at Light Heavyweight

Despite outclassing Mauricio "Shogun" Rua, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson and Lyoto Machida, Jones still has unfinished business at light heavyweight.

He still has fighters like Dan Henderson, Phil Davis, and most importantly, Rashad Evans waiting for a crack at the light heavyweight belt.

His MMA Game Isn't Perfect Yet

Jon Jones is far ahead of many fighters at light heavyweight, but his game isn't perfect yet. Jones still has some work he needs to do.

Specifically, he'll need to work on his striking defense because the fighters at heavyweight hit a lot harder than Machida does.

One of Machida's punches stumbled Jones, could you imagine what a punch from Junior dos Santos would've done?

His Physical Gifts Won't Mean as Much

Jon Jones has a tremendous reach and size advantage against most light heavyweights. His advantages won't be as great over the larger fighters at heavyweight.

He should wait until his technique and abilities are at their very best before going to heavyweight, because he won't be able to rely on his size as much.

His Body Isn't Ready Yet

Jon Jones is only 24 years old; he may well still be growing!

With that being the case, he should wait until his body forces him to go to heavyweight.

There's no reason to rush.