Blocking highkicks can be a zero-sum game for the one on the receiving end. Even if blocked, the shin can still damage the forearm, wrist or hand in 4oz gloves.

They can be used to off-balance the opponent, create a barrier of distance, intercept footwork or break their rhythm.

This is abysmal footwork & I wouldn’t call it a blocked kick since Dom’s instep wraps around Jon’s guard.

Lately Jon’s defensive reactions have been unreliable to deal with ranged attacks from athletic opponents, u’ll see him duck his head & frame off, or turn away entirely and

retreat in straight lines. Adesanya would maliciously exploit these type of reactions. Many of Jon’s opponents unintentionally announce their entries by taking extra telegraphed steps on their kicks or by throwing them with little to no setup.