‘Bones’ makes big claim for all-time UFC ‘GOAT’ after this title triumph.
UFC 285 would see the return of the arguable great mixed martial artist of all time, Jon Jones.
After three years out, writes Donal Long, Jones would move up to heavyweight to challenge Ciryl Gane for the undisputed belt. The highly anticipated fight would also include a stacked fight card in Las Vegas on Saturday.
The highlights of the event include the following:
Jon Jones back in style
Jon Jones returned to the octagon for the first time in three years as he made the move to heavyweight. He faced tough opposition in the promising and dangerous Ciryl Gane in a debut in his new division. Despite doubts regarding his move up to heavyweight, Jones was able to make quick word of Gane. A first round submission would see Jones become a two-weight champion in the UFC.
Jones spoke to Joe Rogan in his post fight interview, stating: “I feel stronger and more comfortable than ever.” Arguably the greatest MMA fighter of all time, Jones says he feels “stronger and more comfortable than ever” in the new weight class.
Looking to the future, Jones looks to have a title defence against Stipe Miocic in July. “Stipe Miocic, I hope you’re training my guy.”
Ian Garry overcomes adversity to get knock-out
Ian ‘Machado’ Garry overcame some first round adversity to get his fourth UFC win.
Garry got dropped by Kenan Song in the opening round by a vicious left hook. However, the Irish fighter was able to recover and get back to his gameplan in the fight. In the third round, Garry was able to turn up the tempo to get a third round finish.
Ian Garry spoke to Joe Rogan in his post fight interview: “In the next couple of years, I’ll have the belt around my waist.”
Alexa Grasso stuns the world
Mexican born Alexa Grasso came into her title fight against Valentina Shevchenko as a massive underdog. However, Grasso was able to defeat the dominant champion in the most unlikely of fashions.
In the fourth round, it seemed as if the dream was out of Grasso’s reach. She was able to capitalise from a mis-kick from Shevchenko to secure a submission victory to become the new flyweight champion. Former champion Valentina Shevchenko said in her post fight interview that she wants an immediate rematch to reclaim her throne.
Alexa Grasso of Mexico reacts to her win over Valentina Shevchenko of Kyrgyzstan in the UFC flyweight championship fight during UFC 285. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)Shavkat continues finish streak
Welterweight prospect Shavkat Rakhmonov added to his 100% finish rate by defeating Geoff Neal by submission.
The fighter from Uzbekistan was the first fighter to finish Neal in the UFC. His impressive display saw him hurt Neal multiple times, eventually getting a standing submission against his ranked opposition. Now Rakhmonov can look up the welterweight rankings, working his way towards a title shot.
Bo Nickel impresses on debut
Bo Nickel got the job done on his highly anticipated debut. The heavy favourite made quick work of Jamie Pickett as he dominated him throughout the duration of the first round. It took just under three minutes for the American wrestler to get the submission victory in his fourth professional fight.
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