As Jon Jones readies for his anticipated return at UFC 309, a long-debated rule change may mark a significant shift in his UFC journey. Dana White’s announcement of the legalization of the 12-6 elbow—an infamous move that cost Jones his only official loss in the Octagon—has reignited discussions on overturning that disqualification. Could this timing signal a change for Jones’s record as he gears up to face Stipe Miocic?
What Prompted the Change in 12-6 Elbow Rule?
The 12-6 elbow rule, prohibiting strikes from a 12 o’clock to 6 o’clock angle, was initially put in place by athletic commissions due to its perceived danger. However, fighters and fans alike have long debated its necessity, arguing that other strikes allowed in the UFC could be just as impactful. Over a decade since Jones’s disqualification against Matt Hamill in 2009, the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports (ABC) has lifted this ban effective November 1, permitting 12-6 elbows in upcoming bouts.
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This recent shift, especially just before Jones’s return, has led fans to demand his loss be expunged from the record. As one fan noted, “12-6 elbows are back two weeks before a Jon Jones fight—you think that’s a coincidence?”
UFC President Dana White Announces Rule Changes on Social Media
Dana White took to Instagram to reveal the upcoming changes ahead of UFC’s event in Edmonton. In his post, White highlighted that the 12-6 elbow strike would be legal moving forward and hinted at a record-breaking North American gate for Fight Night.
“For those of you watching tomorrow, the rules change: the 12-6 elbow is now legal, and the ground-and-fight rule, when you have one hand down on the ground, is gone,” White stated. This move marks a notable shift in MMA’s rule set, potentially altering fight dynamics as new techniques become available to competitors.
How the 12-6 Elbow Rule Affected Jon Jones’s Career
Jones’s sole loss in the UFC came in 2009 when he faced Matt Hamill. During the bout, Jones delivered a series of 12-6 elbows while in a ground-and-pound position. Although he dominated much of the fight, the illegal elbows led to a disqualification, marking his only official defeat in an otherwise impeccable career.
Jones responded to the rule change announcement on social media, subtly calling for the reversal of his loss. “Undefeated then, undefeated now… Dana White we gotta get that loss out of the history books,” Jones posted. While Dana White has not directly addressed Jones’s appeal, fans believe the UFC president may consider the change in light of the rule’s recent legalization.
Fan Reactions: Support for Jones and Speculations on the Timing
The timing of the rule adjustment has stirred varied reactions among fans. Many see the move as a potential boost for Jones, especially as he prepares for his matchup against Miocic. Some fans have gone as far as suggesting a direct connection between the rule’s legalization and Jones’s upcoming fight.
“Legalized those elbows right before Jon Jones fights, huh?” wrote one fan, hinting that the decision could play to Jones’s advantage in the Octagon. Meanwhile, others believe it might also benefit fighters across the board, bringing a new layer of strategy into ground exchanges.
Fans Call on UFC to Overturn Jones’s Loss
The call to remove Jones’s disqualification loss from the official record has only grown louder since the rule change. Social media buzzed with comments like, “REVOKE JON JONES ‘LOSS’. 28-0-1,” as fans urge the UFC to revise his record. Another fan voiced anticipation that White would act on this request: “Dana bout to undo Jon Jones’s DQ loss.”
For many fans, the rule change confirms that Jones’s disqualification was an overreach. Supporters argue that the new regulations validate Jones’s fighting style and erase the grounds for his sole blemish.
The Ground-and-Fight Rule Change Explained
In addition to legalizing the 12-6 elbow, White announced another alteration: the elimination of the “one hand down” rule in ground-and-fight scenarios. Previously, a fighter with one hand down was considered grounded, limiting certain strikes from the opponent. With this rule now removed, fighters may need to rethink defensive strategies, adding new variables for Jones and Miocic’s showdown.
Potential Impact on UFC 309: Will the Rule Change Benefit Jones?
Jones’s fighting style relies heavily on a versatile skill set, including sharp elbows in close-range combat. With the newly permitted 12-6 elbow, he can now deploy this tool without restriction, possibly giving him an edge in his fight against Miocic. However, Miocic, a seasoned wrestler, may also find strategic advantages under the revised rules.
The ripple effect of these changes may extend to the entire sport, as fighters adapt to the new possibilities in their arsenals. As fans eagerly anticipate the outcome of UFC 309, many wonder if this pivotal rule change could mark the beginning of a new era in MMA.
FAQ Section
Why was the 12-6 elbow banned in the first place?
The 12-6 elbow was initially banned due to concerns about its potential danger, with athletic commissions deeming it excessively harmful.
Will Jon Jones’s record be overturned?
As of now, there has been no official word from Dana White or the UFC on reversing Jones’s disqualification, though fans are calling for it.
What other rule changes did Dana White announce?
In addition to legalizing the 12-6 elbow, White removed the “one hand down” rule in ground-and-fight situations.
How will these changes affect future UFC fights?
The rule changes open up new strategies for fighters, potentially increasing the intensity of ground exchanges and broadening the skill sets fighters can employ.
Could this rule change impact Jones’s fight with Miocic?
The 12-6 elbow could add a strategic advantage for Jones, known for his dynamic striking, though both fighters may adjust their strategies accordingly.
