I didn't think he slowed down, just kept a good pace and didn't tire himself out. Unless things have changed a lot recently Jones does not have great stamina. If the fight goes into the later rounds I'd favour Rashad in that department. He has proven that he can go five rounds.
A lot of really young fighters actually don't have great stamina. Or at least they aren't as good at pacing themselves as veterans. That is why Stephan Bonnar was able to win the third round in his fight with Jones and why Condit managed to beat MacDonald. MacDonald was beating Condit's ass for two rounds then lost it in the third.
I know exactly what you mean about Jones, but I think he showed great improvement in his title fight against Shogun. Once he was in his guard and let the elbows fly, he kept a steady, if not frantic, pace until he finished him. His striking kept its power throughout until the KO.
I don't see Rampage beating Jones. If Jones vs Rashad happens, the build up and story line in the weeks leading into it are going to be the stuff of WWE, real personal drama just escalating with every interview and every sound bite.
Jones is the superior fighter, in my opinion, but to echo Rashad, man the kid is cocky. I'd love it for Rashad to bring him back down from the clouds a bit.
EDIT: I meant to say I don't see Rampage beating Jones above.
Edited by Noel Luperon, 07 August 2011 - 07:06 PM.