Jon Jones has made himself one of the best mixed martial artists of all time as he defeated Stipe Miocic with a gorgeous kick to retain his heavyweight title at UFC 309.
He won the fight after defeating his fellow American Miocic. He won the fight after engaging him in a kick in the third round at New York’s Madison Square Garden to make the first defence of his belt.
Jones who is now 37 years of age stated that he plans to continue his career but fails to confirm who he will be competing with in his next outing. There have been speculations that he may be competing against Britain’s interim champion Tom Aspinall.
Jones stated that as far as his future in the octagon, he decided that maybe he would not retire. He further stated that he will have some conversations and negotiations which will determine the next step. He explained that if the conversations and negotiations go well then the fight with Tom may be a reality.
Miocic who spoke after the fight confirmed that he will be retiring after the defeat, he is currently 42 years old. He expressed frustration with the defeat, he stated that it sucks that he lost the fight. Miocic further applauded the winner stating that he was aware that he was one of the best fighters of all time. He described the punches and stated that he came strong felt good and was blocking until he was caught in the ribs.
He stated that he was done and was hanging his gloves confirming that it was his last fight.
With the win, former light-heavyweight champion Jones make a record-extending his 16th in title fights – and 22nd overall in the UFC.
The retirement of Miocic means that he will be leaving the sport with the record of most heavyweight title defences (four) and is widely considered the division’s greatest champion.
The distinction of the event was heightened by American president-elect Donald Trump, who seated at octagon-side after coming to a thrilling reception alongside tech billionaire Elon Musk, musician Kid Rock and UFC supremo Dana White.
On the arrival of Trump, he waved to the fans who chanted USA as me walked his way to the octagon, before flowing in applause and dancing as the UFC played footage celebrating his election victory.
White has been known as a key ally to Trump, he was an active campaigner for Trump during the election, despite the challenges that exist with the UFC who are currently battling with legal challenges because of the lawsuits that have been submitted by past fighters.
