I'm not a fan of either of these fighters. Anderson in particular, I will always remember as the guy who got submitted with a flying heel hook by Ryo Chonan in PRIDE.
With that said, Anderson was much more scarier in his prime than Jones. They will obviously never fight now that Anderson lost and is probably going to retire soon. But I don't think anyone can deny Anderson was/is a much more skilled fighter.
Anderson threw everything with bad intentions and is one of the best finishers in UFC history. He could end a fight in a few seconds. He was also more accurate than Jones, and had way better defense (hand-eye coordination).
Anderson's repertoire of punches and kicks is the complete package. Jab, cross, hook, uppercut, etc. Anderson was good at all of those. Jones throws a bit of a lazy jab, has a weak hook and cross.
Jones' multiple head kicks didn't even phase Gustaffson. Andersons one head kick put fire-hydrant head Chris Leben, and Rich Franklin on queer street.
Anderson defense was very elusive with great footwork and head movement. Jones has a defense that should be penalized or illegal. He extends his arm and sticks his fingers out, often poking his opponent in the eye. It also appears that he runs away. It's happened so many times you can't even call it an accident anymore. Jones should be deducted points for that. All it does is expose another flaw in the UFC/NSAC rulebook.
Skill Breakdown
Punching: Anderson
Kicking: Anderson
Knees: Anderson
Clinch: Anderson
Accuracy: Anderson
Speed: Anderson
Power: Anderson
Defense: Anderson
BJJ: Anderson
Wrestling: Jones
Jon Jones without the reach/height advantage would be a below average fighter.
Anderson Silva without the reach/height advantage would still be a great fighter. The reach/height was just a bonus that made him that much deadlier.
