Five years ago, those well-versed in the European MMA scene would have confidently stated that Mason Jones was a formidable opponent for Paddy Pimblett.
Having recently secured the lightweight championship title in Cage Warriors, the Welsh fighter was seen as a tough matchup for “The Baddy,” who was making a comeback after a hand injury that kept him out of the sport for nearly two years — the longest break Pimblett had ever experienced.
Both fighters made their UFC debuts in 2021. While Pimblett is currently a rising star in the promotion, Jones is looking to bounce back as he begins his second stint in the Octagon by facing hometown favorite Jeremy Stephens at UFC Des Moines on Saturday night.
“You’re either on the rise or on the decline,” Jones shared with Uncrowned before their bout from his hotel room in Des Moines, Iowa. “And when you’re on the decline, it’s a steep drop.”
No one anticipated Jones’s downturn. Known for his aggressive fighting style, he quickly climbed the ranks in Europe with a fierce determination. His UFC debut against Mike Davis was a tough challenge, although Jones didn’t emerge victorious, earning a Fight of the Night bonus was a small consolation.
In his next fight against Alan Patrick, Jones showcased his skills by dominating the Brazilian in the first round. However, the bout ended in a no contest after an accidental eye poke left Patrick unable to continue. Despite securing his first UFC win against David Onama in a short-notice bout, a subsequent loss to Ludovik Klein raised doubts about Jones’s future with the promotion.
At a post-fight party following Pimblett’s impressive victory, Jones congratulated his former Cage Warriors colleague, expressing his admiration and acknowledging Pimblett’s newfound superstar status. However, Jones was envious of Pimblett’s success, wishing he could have been in the same position.
After his first UFC stint ended six weeks later, Jones faced numerous challenges, including strained family relationships, personal struggles, and financial difficulties. Despite the setbacks, Jones remained resilient and committed to reclaiming his spot in the UFC.
Following a series of wins in Cage Warriors, Jones earned his ticket back to the UFC.
Mason Jones’ first UFC run did not live up to expectations. (Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
(Jeff Bottari via Getty Images)
Despite facing financial challenges, Jones remains optimistic about his future in the UFC.
“I’ve got some bills to pay,” he admits, but he sees his upcoming fight as an opportunity to rebuild and accelerate his career.
As the opening fighter on the main card against Stephens, Jones understands the significance of this bout. Despite the size disadvantage, he is prepared to face “Lil Heathen” and is focused on securing a victory on Saturday night.
With a hunger for success, Jones is determined to prove himself in the Octagon once again.
“Jeremy may underestimate me, but he’ll soon realize that I’m a force to be reckoned with,” Jones asserts. “I’m going to show him what I’m made of.”