Returning to New York City, UFC 309 delivered yet another night of thrilling action. Headlined by the much-anticipated clash between reigning heavyweight champion Jon Jones and former champion Stipe Miocic, this event showcased the sport at its finest.
Alongside the main event, was the co-main event that was a rematch between former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira and the ever-dangerous former Bellator lightweight champion Michael Chandler.
Fans were also treated to incredible finishes that reminded us why UFC nights are must-watch events. Sooooo IT’S TIIIIME…without further ado, to dive into the Top 3 Finishes from UFC 309!
3. Jim Miller vs. Damon Jackson
In this lightweight contest, Jim Miller proved once again why he’s a veteran to be feared, despite being in his 40’s.
With a record of 37-18, he took on the 23-7-1 Damon Jackson, and proved that age is just a number.
Round 1 started with both fighters coming out with intent, exchanging strikes in the center of the Octagon.
Miller pressured Jackson early, staying calm and winning the majority of the striking exchanges.
At 2:35, Jackson shot for a takedown that was easily defended by Miller. Seizing the opportunity, Miller locked in a picture-perfect guillotine choke, forcing Jackson to tap at 2:44.
This victory marked yet another submission in Miller’s storied career, showcasing his unparalleled MMA experience, and causing Jackson to retire.
2. Ramiz Brahimaj vs. Mickey Gall
To close off the early prelims, we have a New York vs. New Jersey showdown, as the Bronx’s own, the 10-5 Ramiz Brahimaj, took on the 7-6 Mickey Gall from NJ.
Round 1 started at a measured pace, with Brahimaj pressing forward and Gall wisely keeping Brahimaj at range.
Brahimaj quickly found his rhythm, throwing precise and powerful combinations.
At 2:52, he knocked Gall out cold with a right hand and followed through with ground and pound before the referee stopped the fight at 2:55.
This handed Brahimaj a memorable knockout victory and earned him a Performance of the Night bonus!
1. Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic
In his first ever heavyweight title defense, the 27-1 former light heavyweight champion and New York native, Jon Jones successfully defended his title against the legendary former heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic, who was 20-4 and coming back after losing his title to Francis Ngannou 3 years ago.
Round 1 started with Jones landing two body kicks. Despite Miocic’s attempt to press with boxing combinations, Jones successfully evaded the punches and scored a sweep at 1:22.
Jones stayed on top of Miocic, landing a series of damaging elbows that highlighted Jones’s control of the round, easily giving the reigning champion a 10-8 round.
In round 2, Miocic showed flashes of brilliance, landing a couple of significant punches that temporarily disrupted Jones’s momentum.
However, Jones stayed composed, mixing up strikes to keep Miocic guessing. By the end of the round, Jones had retaken control with precise body kicks and body shots.
In round 3, Jones continued his dominance on the feet, hurting Miocic with a right hand at 1:27.
At 4:23, a spinning back kick to the mid-section dropped Miocic, and Jones immediately followed up with a barrage of ground-and-pound.
The referee had seen enough, stepping in to wave the fight at 4:29.
Jones retained his title and earned a Performance of the Night bonus, solidifying his place as arguably the greatest mixed martial artist of all time.
Miocic, a legend in his own right, announced his retirement following the fight, leaving behind a legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
