The Ultimate Fighting Championship is set to deliver an electrifying night of mixed martial arts action with UFC 309, headlined by a colossal heavyweight title bout between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. As the world's premier MMA organization returns to the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City, fight fans are in for a treat with a stacked card featuring some of the sport's biggest names and most promising prospects.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about UFC 309, from the main event showdown to the preliminary bouts, broadcast details, and expert analysis. So strap in and get ready for an unforgettable night of fights!
Watch UFC 309: Jones vs. Miocic on MMAStreams
To catch all the action of the Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic fight at UFC 309, make sure to tune in to MMAStreams. MMAStreams is a popular online platform that provides live streams of UFC events, allowing fans from around the world to witness the excitement of the octagon.
Simply visit the MMAStreams website on the day of the event, and you'll have access to multiple streams of the fights, including Jones vs Miocic. Whether you're watching from the comfort of your home or on the go, MMAStreams ensures that you don't miss a single moment of the action.
The Main Event: Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic
At the heart of UFC 309 lies a clash between two of the greatest heavyweights in MMA history. Reigning champion Jon Jones puts his title on the line against former two-time champion Stipe Miocic in a bout that has fans and pundits buzzing with anticipation.
Jon Jones: The GOAT Seeks to Cement His Legacy
Jon "Bones" Jones enters this fight with an almost unblemished professional record of 27-1-0 (with one no contest). Long considered the greatest light heavyweight of all time, Jones made a successful transition to the heavyweight division in March 2023, capturing the vacant title with a dominant first-round submission victory over Ciryl Gane.
Despite his incredible success, Jones has faced criticism for his inactivity in recent years. UFC 309 marks only his second fight in the past four years, largely due to contract disputes and a serious injury that forced the postponement of this bout from its original December 2023 date.
Stipe Miocic: The Firefighter Seeks to Reclaim His Crown
Stipe Miocic (20-4-0) enters this bout as the challenger, but his resume speaks for itself. The Ohio native holds the record for most successful heavyweight title defenses in UFC history and is widely regarded as one of the best heavyweights the sport has ever seen.
However, like Jones, Miocic has been absent from the Octagon for an extended period. His last fight was a knockout loss to Francis Ngannou in March 2021, which saw him relinquish the heavyweight title. At 41 years old, questions remain about Miocic's ability to compete at the highest level after such a long layoff.
Co-Main Event: Charles Oliveira vs Michael Chandler II
The co-main event features a rematch between two of the lightweight division's most exciting fighters. Former champion Charles Oliveira (34-10-0) takes on Michael Chandler (23-8-0) in a bout that could have major implications for the 155-pound title picture.
Charles Oliveira: The Submission Specialist
Oliveira, currently ranked #2 in the lightweight division, is looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Islam Makhachev in their title fight at UFC 280. The Brazilian holds the UFC record for most submission victories and is always a threat to end fights in spectacular fashion.
Known for his aggressive grappling style and improving striking, Oliveira will be eager to prove he still belongs at the top of the division. A win over Chandler could put him right back in line for another title shot.
Michael Chandler: The All-Action Fighter
Michael Chandler, ranked #7, has become a fan favorite since joining the UFC in 2021. His all-action style and willingness to engage in firefights have made him must-see TV, even if the results haven't always gone his way.
Chandler is coming off a submission loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 281 but remains a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. His wrestling background and powerful striking make him a threat both on the feet and on the ground.
Rising Star Spotlight: Bo Nickal vs Paul Craig
One of the most intriguing matchups on the UFC 309 main card pits undefeated prospect Bo Nickal (6-0-0) against veteran submission specialist Paul Craig (17-8-1) in a middleweight clash.
Bo Nickal: The Next Big Thing?
Nickal enters this bout with a perfect professional record and a mountain of hype behind him. A three-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion, Nickal has transitioned seamlessly to MMA, finishing all of his opponents in dominant fashion.
This fight represents a significant step up in competition for Nickal, but many believe he has the potential to be a future champion in the UFC. His wrestling pedigree and rapidly improving striking make him a handful for anyone in the division.
Paul Craig: The Crafty Veteran
Scotland's Paul Craig brings a wealth of experience to this matchup. Known for his dangerous submission game, Craig has pulled off several come-from-behind victories in the UFC, earning a reputation as a fighter who's never out of a fight until the final bell.
While he enters as the underdog, Craig's veteran savvy and grappling skills could pose problems for the less experienced Nickal. This bout will be a true test of whether Nickal is ready for the upper echelons of the middleweight division.
Women's Flyweight Contender Clash
The main card also features an important women's flyweight bout between #9 ranked Viviane Araujo (12-6-0) and #11 ranked Karine Silva (18-4-0). Both fighters are looking to climb the rankings and position themselves for a potential title shot in the competitive 125-pound division.
Viviane Araujo: The Brazilian Striker
Araujo has shown flashes of brilliance in her UFC career but has struggled with consistency against top competition. Her striking-heavy style and athleticism make her a threat on the feet, but she'll need to be wary of Silva's grappling prowess.
Karine Silva: The Submission Threat
Silva enters this bout on a seven-fight win streak, with all of those victories coming by stoppage. Her aggressive grappling style and improving striking make her a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.
This matchup has the potential to be a thrilling contest between two fighters with contrasting styles. The winner could find themselves in the mix for a top-five ranking and closer to title contention.
Preliminary Card Highlights
While the main card of UFC 309 is stacked with intriguing matchups, the preliminary card also features several bouts worth tuning in for. Here are some of the key fights to watch:
Jonathan Martinez vs Marcus McGhee
In the bantamweight division, #13 ranked Jonathan Martinez (19-5-0) takes on Dana White's Contender Series alum Marcus McGhee (9-1-0). Martinez has won five straight fights and is looking to break into the top 10, while McGhee aims to make a statement in his UFC debut.
Chris Weidman vs Eryk Anders
Former middleweight champion Chris Weidman (16-7-0) continues his comeback attempt against the always-tough Eryk Anders (16-8-0). Weidman, now 39, is looking to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level after a devastating leg injury in 2021.
Jim Miller vs Gabriel Benitez
UFC record holder Jim Miller (37-18-0) returns for his 42nd appearance in the Octagon, facing Gabriel Benitez (23-7-1) in a lightweight bout. Miller's longevity and continued success are a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
