UFC 309 Recap

UFC 309 Recap: Respect the GOAT, Do Bronx is really Illuminated by God, and New Blood Makes Waves

Madison Square Garden was the place to be on November 16, 2024, as UFC 309 absolutely delivered. Big names, wild finishes, and exciting prelim fights all showed up. From Jon Jones reminding the world he’s untouchable to Charles Oliveira proving he’s still a killer deserving of title considerations, this card had everything fight fans could dream of.

Main Event: Jon Jones Still King

Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic? That’s legacy-level stuff right there, and it didn’t disappoint. Jones used every tool in his legendary arsenal to keep Stipe guessing. Miocic brought his A-game, but let’s be real—this was Jon’s night. Hats off to Stipe for a hell of a career. He will be remembered as a great champion. Ive' been practicing that kick on my heavy bag all morning. SHEEEESHHH!!

Now, all eyes are on a showdown with Tom Aspinall. The GOAT's next battle is not being labeled a duck.

Co-Main Event: Oliveira vs. Chandler 2 Was Pure Chaos

Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler ran it back, and the result? A beat down until the 5th round. Oliveira controlled the fight standing and grappling. The 5th round featured a great show of heart as Iron Mike Chandler threw haymakers left and right and event clipped Do Bronk. But, Oliveira didn’t fold under pressure. He turned it around, showing off his grit and held on to a unanimous decision victory.

This win throws Oliveira right back into the title mix. UFC's lightweight division is stacked, but Oliveira just reminded everyone he’s still one of the baddest men at 155 pounds.

Bo Nickal Keeps Rolling

Bo Nickal answered the call in his first test—the audience had a problem. He took on Paul Craig, a seasoned grappler, and made it look like a sparing session. Nickal’s relentless pressure and ever-improving striking was on display few and far between last night.

It’s only a matter of time before Nickal is fighting the top guys in the middleweight division. He’s got work to do.... just like all of us. Keep training brother.

Prelims Were Straight Heat

The prelims gave fans plenty to cheer for. Jonathan Martinez looked sharp in a striking clinic against Marcus McGhee, and Jim Miller added another epic moment to his career with a submission victory over Damon Jackson. Always jump the gilly. Shoutout Dustin Porier. Jim Miller just keeps getting better with age. He stated post fight he wants to fight until he's 50. Oss my brother.

Final Word

UFC 309 was a mix of legends doing their thing and the next generation stepping up. Jon Jones reminded us why he’s the GOAT, Charles Oliveira showed his heart and skill, and fighters like Bo Nickal and Jonathan Martinez proved the future is in good hands.

The heavyweight and lightweight divisions are heating up, and this card had everyone hyped for what’s next in 2025. If UFC 309 is any indication, the best is yet to come.

image: The Independent