Conor McGregor had a front-row seat to watch Jon Jones fight for the first time in three years, and apparently, he was impressed by the UFC legend.
‘Bones’ had been out of action ever since deciding to relinquish his light-heavyweight title following a unanimous decision defence against Dominick Reyes at UFC 247 in February 2020.
The 35-year-old spent the next few years bulking up for a move to heavyweight but not everyone was impressed with his new physique when shirtless pictures began to circulate online ahead of his fight with Ciryl Gane at UFC 285.
Jones responded to his critics by insisting he feels as strong as a ‘lion’ and would prove people wrong by winning the UFC heavyweight title at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on March 4.
And that’s precisely what he did. The UFC Hall of Famer quickly took Gane to the floor and easily submitted him after just a couple of minutes to become a two-weight UFC champion.
‘Notorious’ was one of the many people who took to social media after watching UFC 285 to heap praise on Jones for his performance and accomplishment.
McGregor tweeted: “That was incredible by Jon last night! Even better to see it live!”
“The man should’ve had two belts presented to him. And both sparkling. He did it. F***ing brilliant, Jon Jones! Congrats!”
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The former dual-weight champion also congratulated Alexa Grasso, who scored a monumental upset victory when she tapped out long-time flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko in the UFC 285 co-main event.
McGregor added: “Congrats Mexico! Your New World Champion, Alexa Grasso! There are now two Mexican born UFC World Champions. Excellent! Not surprised. Viva Mexico”
‘Mystic Mac’ will soon return from his own hiatus after fully healing up from the fractured tibia and fibula he suffered while fighting Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021.
McGregor has promised he’ll mount the greatest sporting comeback in history ahead of his fight with Michael Chandler who he is currently coaching alongside on The Ultimate Fighter.
The Irishman will be hoping an impressive win over Chandler secures him another shot at UFC gold and gives him the opportunity to replicate the success Jones has enjoyed after his long spell on the sidelines.
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