JON JONES successfully returned from a THREE-YEAR lay-off to capture the heavyweight crown and further stake his claim to be the greatest fighter of all time.
Eleven years after first toying with a move up to heavyweight, Jones challenged Frenchman Ciryl Gane for the vacant title in the main event of UFC 285 in Las Vegas.
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MMA fans had their doubts ahead of the former light-heavyweight champion’s date with destiny, with many believing Father Time had caught up with him in his last outing.
But he silenced the doubters with a stunning first-round submission victory over Gane to become a two-division champion and further cement his already concrete legacy in the sport.
An elated Jones told UFC commentator Joe Rogan: “First and foremost, I gotta give thanks to my lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
“Without him, I never would’ve made it this far.”
ones immediately took the centre of the octagon after rising from his traditional crouch stance.
They traded leg kicks early doors but Gane brought a halt to the action with an accidental low blow – much to the disappointment of the crowd.
Jones, 35, quickly recovered and went back at the Frenchman.
Gane was light on his feet from the get-go and looked to pick Jones apart from distance.
Wrestling phenom Jones nearly bagged an early takedown off a leg kick but was unable to complete it.
Apex predator Jones was encouraged, however, and started stalking Gane like a hungry animal.
And he managed to bring the fight down to his domain by beautifully slipping a right hand with and scoring a takedown with a level change.
Gane tried to work his way back up to his feet but soon found himself with his back pressed up against the cage.
Jones managed to cinch in a guillotine choke, but Gane initially defended it well.
But Jones managed to re-apply it and send the arena into pandemonium by drawing a tap from Gane.
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Jones was overcome with emotion as he thanked the loved ones who helped him achieve his dream of becoming heavyweight king.
He said: I’ve been working for this for such a long time, but I’ve been faithful to my goal. I’ve been faithful to the mission.
“There were days that I didn’t want to train but I was always there
“I knew if I got him down to the ground that the fight would be in my area as I’ve been wrestling since I was 12 years old.
“I actually felt a little bit goofy on the feet, but I want to say one last thing, ‘baa!’”
Next up for Jones is a summer showdown against the consensus greatest heavyweight of all time, Stipe Miocic.
And Jones is relishing the prospect of claiming the title from the Cleveland clubber.
He said: “Stipe Miocic, I hope you’re training, my guy.
“You’re the greatest heavyweight of all time, and that’s what I want. I want you — real bad.”
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