UFC 309 will go down as a night where legends solidified their legacies and rising stars proved their worth. In the main event, Jon Jones retained his heavyweight title with a third-round TKO over Stipe Miocic. Jones dominated from start to finish, demonstrating once again why he is widely regarded as the GOAT of MMA. Whatever comes next—be it a superfight with a potential winner between Alex Pereira and Tom Aspinall, as suggested by his coach Gordon Ryan—Jones has unequivocally reaffirmed his greatness.
The co-main event saw Charles Oliveira secure a unanimous decision over Michael Chandler after a grueling five-round war. Oliveira showcased his evolution as a complete fighter, utilizing precise striking and relentless grappling to earn a clear victory.
Bo Nickal faced his biggest test yet in Paul Craig, passing with flying colors as he continued to prove he’s ready for tougher challenges. Meanwhile, Jim Miller, after a first-round submission victory, announced his intention to reach 50 professional fights before retiring—a goal that further adds to his legendary career.
In a shocking turn, Mickey Gall suffered a devastating knockout at the hands of Ramiz Brahimaj. The result raises questions about Gall’s next steps and what his future in the sport might hold.
The evening also marked a farewell for Stipe Miocic, who announced his retirement following his loss. As a former heavyweight champion, Miocic leaves behind a legacy as one of the division’s most accomplished and respected fighters.
Adding to the unforgettable atmosphere, Donald Trump attended the event alongside Elon Musk, Robert Kennedy Jr., and Tulsi Gabbard. Madison Square Garden erupted into cheers when Trump entered, creating a moment that transcended the octagon and resonated with the spirit of the night. The crowd’s energy seemed to create a sentiment of “America is back.”
UFC 309 was a celebration of greatness and the unpredictable beauty of MMA. From Jones' continued reign to the emotional retirement of Miocic, it was an event fans will remember for years to come.
