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Jon Jones once again cemented his legacy as the greatest of all time, successfully defending his heavyweight title with a third-round stoppage of Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. The main event showcased Jones’ tactical brilliance and finishing power, culminating in a spinning back kick to Miocic’s body that ended the fight at 4:29 of Round 3.
From the opening bell, Jones dominated the former champion, utilizing his signature takedowns and ground-and-pound to wear down Miocic. An early trip takedown allowed Jones to unleash a barrage of elbows, forcing Miocic to stay in constant motion to avoid a premature stoppage. On the feet, Jones displayed superior speed and precision, connecting with body kicks and sharp jabs that visibly slowed Miocic.
Miocic’s resilience was on full display as he absorbed punishment and attempted counters, but Jones’ methodical approach left little room for the Ohio native to find his rhythm. As Miocic pursued with heavy strikes, Jones capitalized on an opening, landing the spinning back kick that sent Miocic crumpling to the canvas. Referee Herb Dean stepped in as Jones delivered a few more shots to seal the win.
“He’s really, really good,” Jones said post-fight about Miocic. “It was like fighting against the Terminator. But that body shot, no matter how tough you are, the liver’s the liver.”
Miocic, visibly dejected, announced his retirement after the fight, saying,
“Hats off to that man. I’m done. I’m hanging them up. I’m retiring.”
A two-time heavyweight champion and future Hall of Famer, Miocic exits the sport as one of the greatest heavyweights in UFC history. While speculation loomed over Jones’ potential retirement, the reigning champion hinted at future plans.
“I decided that maybe I will not retire,” Jones revealed.
Talks with UFC President Dana White and matchmaker Hunter Campbell could pave the way for a showdown with interim champion Tom Aspinall. For now, Jones remains at the pinnacle of MMA, and his next chapter promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
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