MMA Junkie reports that Jon Jones’ pre-UFC 128 special, “In the Moment” garnered 555,000 viewers. Jones’ half-hour feature outscored the regular countdown show which drew 406,000 viewers.
The success of the special may mean that “In the Moment” specials may return for future events.
Payout Perspective:
The strong ratings show the popularity of Jones. Even more impressive than receiving better ratings than the Countdown show was the fact that the show ran opposite the tail end of NCAA tournament basketball games. Similar to the UFC Primetime series, the show went behind-the-scenes of Jones’ training camp. The one difference was that it gave Jones’ point of view. Although there is speculation about doing future specials like this, you’d have to find a fighter as articulate and personable as Jones to feature.
The UFC has been building up Jones. Tonight we’ll see if they invested in the right horse.
He also scored an overwhelming victory last night. Impressive.
The hype around Jones was incredibly smart and ultimately, well deserved. Jones is a marketers dream, and I predict that he will quickly become the highest paid MMA fighter. His ability to speak well, good looks, humility, and desire to be a role mode, will earn him endorsements unlike any other. l do not think even GSP can bring the type of mainstream company attention that Jones will.