Jon Jones put on a masterclass at Madison Square Garden, successfully defending his UFC heavyweight title in spectacular fashion against former champion Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 309. Not only did “Bones” dominate inside the octagon, but he also stole the spotlight outside it by imitating Donald Trump’s signature dance, performing directly in front of the president-elect, who attended the fight.
Jones first claimed the heavyweight belt earlier in 2023 at UFC 285 when he defeated Ciryl Gane in dominant fashion. The clash with Miocic had been eagerly anticipated for over a year, but the original bout scheduled for 2022 was canceled after Jones tore his pectoral tendon in training. For Miocic, this fight marked a return to the cage after a three-year hiatus. The 42-year-old had not competed since suffering a devastating knockout loss to Francis Ngannou in 2021, which saw him lose the heavyweight crown.
A Vintage Jon Jones Performance
From the opening bell, Jones reminded fans why he is considered one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. He immediately took the fight to Miocic, utilizing a diverse arsenal of strikes, including high kicks and precise body shots. Midway through the first round, Jones took Miocic down and unleashed a series of brutal elbows to the temple, showcasing his signature ground-and-pound style. His speed advantage was evident, having come in significantly lighter for this fight compared to his bout against Gane.
By the second round, Miocic appeared visibly fatigued. The former champion struggled to mount any meaningful offense as Jones continued to control the pace of the fight, landing sharp jabs and punishing kicks to the body. Miocic’s labored movement made him an easy target for Jones, who capitalized on every opening.
The third round proved to be the end for Miocic. Jones delivered a devastating liver kick that sent Miocic crashing to the canvas. Without hesitation, Jones pounced and finished the job with a flurry of strikes, cementing his place as the reigning king of the heavyweight division.
Celebrating in Style
The victory wasn’t just about retaining the title—it was about making a statement. After his emphatic win, Jones wasted no time celebrating. He walked to the edge of the octagon and performed his best impression of Donald Trump’s iconic dance, drawing cheers and laughter from the crowd. Jones directed his playful performance toward Trump, who was seated cageside. Afterward, Jones flashed a thumbs-up at the president-elect, who responded with applause and a nod of approval.
But Jones wasn’t done yet. In a lighthearted moment during his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, the 37-year-old heavyweight champion once again acknowledged Trump, leading a spirited “USA” chant in the arena. His antics added a dose of humor and personality to an already unforgettable night.
Addressing the Future
When asked about his future, Jones hinted that retirement might no longer be on the table, despite earlier speculation. “I decided maybe I will not retire,” Jones told Rogan. “I have some conversations to have with Dana and Hunter. We’ll negotiate, and if everything works out, we’ll give the fans what they want to see. I know we have options, and I’m excited to see what’s next.”
Jones’ comments sparked excitement among fans, who had feared that his fight against Miocic could be his last. Instead, the champion’s remarks suggested that there may be more high-stakes matchups on the horizon, leaving the door open for potential superfights in the heavyweight division.
The End of an Era for Miocic
For Stipe Miocic, the night was bittersweet. Following the fight, the former heavyweight champion confirmed that this was his final appearance in the octagon. “I’m done,” Miocic announced. “I’m hanging them up. Thank God.” The announcement marked the end of an illustrious career for Miocic, who holds the record for the most title defenses in UFC heavyweight history.
Miocic’s legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time remains intact, despite the loss to Jones. His contributions to the sport, both as a fighter and as a firefighter in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, have made him a fan favorite and an icon in the MMA community.
What’s Next for Jones?
As for Jones, his future in the UFC remains a hot topic. With potential challengers like Sergei Pavlovich and Tom Aspinall waiting in the wings, the heavyweight division has no shortage of exciting matchups. Jones’ decision to continue fighting opens the door for more blockbuster events and further solidifies his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
UFC 309 was not just a night of memorable fights—it was a showcase of Jon Jones’ brilliance, both as a fighter and as a showman. With his dominant performance, playful antics, and a teasing glimpse of what’s next, “Bones” once again proved why he is one of the most captivating figures in mixed martial arts.
