After UFC 285, are Cody Garbrandt’s days as a top competitor over?
This past Saturday in the featured qualifiers at UFC 285, former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt (13-6) was looking to get back in the win column. Standing in his way was Trevin Jones (13-10) who was looking for the biggest win of his career.
Garbrandt’s fall from grace was incredibly steep. At one point, he was undefeated and reigning bantamweight champion. He just defeated the greatest heavyweight of all time and looked like he was on the cusp of superstardom. However, after winning the title over Dominic Cruz, Garbrandt only went 1-5 in the next six including four knockout losses.
Prior to UFC 285, he went down to flyweight in one fight as he was knocked out by Kai Kara-France. This was a huge step back in competition for him, but was seen as a reset fight for the former champion. During the first two rounds, Garbrandt displayed a very patient game plan.
He didn’t go overboard or get aggressive which has gotten him into trouble in the past. He held his ground and pulled back to the lead. However, in the third round, Jones began to press and stalk the action. It clearly shook Garbrandt a few times. The former champion held out and won by a decision of 29-28.
What’s next for UFC 285?
In the post-fight press conference, Garbrandt said he had picked up a neck injury right before the fight and thought he might have to pull out. He removed it and got in there and took the win. However, the last round was really telling for me.
I don’t think anyone would be wise to bet Cody Garbrandt against someone with solid punching power. If Trevin Jones had put his foot on the gas by the opening bell, I’m not so sure Garbrandt would have won Saturday night.
Maybe I’m overreacting, but Garbrandt didn’t look like a guy who could hold up in ranked competition on Saturday night. I’m sure his next fight will be someone in the rankings, maybe in the back end of the 15th. Garbrandt could have the opportunity to silence a lot of people if that’s the case. Me included.
