Jon Jones headlines the UFC’s Ultimate Fighter 10 Finale show this Saturday night on Spike TV with a light heavyweight showdown against Matt “The Hammer” Hamill. While the organization is clearly looking to build “Bones” Jones into a new young star, it is Kimbo Slice’s participation in the event that will draw by far the most fan interest and buzz. At second place in the latest buzz rankings, Kimbo alone has the appeal and drawing power to drive strong ratings for the UFC and Spike. Should Slice bring in millions of viewers the way he did for his previous fight with Roy Nelson, the UFC may generate enormous carryover viewership for their main event between Jones and Hamill.
Jon Jones has been on a tear since turning professional in MMA in April of 2008, racking up a perfect 9-0 record including three wins in the UFC. As evidenced by their rapidly pushing him to main-event status, the UFC clearly has high hopes for the 22-year old New York native. Matt Hamill presents perhaps the greatest set of challenges yet for Jones with his wrestling, constantly improving striking, and durability. Despite the high level of intrigue in this bout among serious MMA fans, however, these two fighters have near anonymity among casual fans. Jones is currently ranked 145th in the latest buzz rankings and Matt Hamill is faring only slightly better at 117th.
That could all change on Saturday. Both fighters, Jones in particular, will have an enormous opportunity to raise their profile and convert a new wave of fans should they deliver an impressive performance. With Kimbo at 2nd in the buzz rankings and a near-lock to deliver strong TV ratings for the show, the UFC is perfectly positioned to introduce one of its brightest prospects with a bang.
| Fighter | Latest Buzz Rank | Peak Buzz Rank | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kimbo Slice | 2 | 1 | Sep 2009 |
| Houston Alexander | 50 | 45 | Mar 2009 |
| Matt Hamill | 117 | 21 | Mar 2009 |
| Jon Jones | 145 | 47 | Jul 2009 |
| Average | 79 | 29 |
