Banned MMA move responsible for Jon Jones' sole loss set to be legalized at UFC Edmonton just in time for his return
An illegal MMA move that led to Jon Jones' lone professional defeat is about to be legalized at UFC Edmonton. Interestingly, this is happening right before Jones' highly anticipated octagon comeback at UFC 309.
For context, Jones faced Matt Hamill in 2009. During a flurry of ground-and-pound attacks, 'Bones' landed a few elbows that appeared to break the 12-6 rule, which was heavily criticized even at the time. According to the rule, elbows that rise vertically and strike downward with the tip are deemed foul. Jones was consequently given a DQ loss.
Nevertheless, the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports Mixed Martial Arts Committee (ABC) decided to lift the ban, which would take effect after Nov. 1.
MMA journalist Ariel Helwani took to X this July and also announced that the 12 to 6 elbow rule is no longer illegal, as well as a slight change in the grounded opponent rule. Having stated that, UFC Edmonton will implement these two significant rule changes.
This Saturday, UFC will return to Edmonton, Canada for the first time since 2019. Jones is set to defend his heavyweight title against former champion Stipe Miocic at the event.
Upon removal of the 12-6 elbow rule, the reigning champion took to social media in July. He encouraged UFC CEO Dana White to get involved in the process of overturning his sole loss to a no-contest.
"Undefeated then, undefeated now... Dana White we gotta get that loss out of the history books."
UFC Edmonton will also feature another rule change. The new rule specifies that fighters cannot stop the fight by laying a single hand on the canvas. They are considered grounded only if they have body parts other than their hands and feet on the ground.
Mark Coleman backs Stipe Miocic to defeat Jon Jones
Stipe Miocic will return to octagon against Jon Jones at UFC 309 in hopes of reclaiming his heavyweight title. However, many are doubtful of Miocic's chances against Jones because of his old age and lack of activity.
UFC legend Mark Coleman recently commented under Miocic's latest Instagram post, expressing his support for the 42-year-old, writing:
''You can do it, Champ! Finish him and be the King.''
