On this day 12 years ago, Jon Jones became the youngest-ever UFC champion
Jon Jones is one of the biggest names mixed martial arts has ever seen, and is often referred to as the greatest of all time. That legacy all started 12 years ago today when he got his first taste of UFC gold.
'Bones' has been in the UFC since 2008 and during his 15-year career in the octagon, he has put together a resume that is arguably the most impressive in the sport's history. In his most recent outing, the New Mexico native added himself to the exclusive list of two-division champions in the promotion.
12 years ago today, Jon Jones became the youngest-ever UFC champion after a dominating display against Shogun Rua. The then 23-year-old was already making waves in the sport before being offered a chance to fight for the title, an opportunity he took with both hands by showcasing his dominance.
#OnThisDay in 2011 Jon Jones became the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion 🏆
The youngest ever UFC champion. The GOAT. @JonnyBones 🐐 https://t.co/Tnqn2W5NHO
Despite being much less experienced, the NJCAA All-American wrestler brought a certain swagger into the octagon and seemed almost unbeatable on the night. Already establishing himself as a name in the sport, it was the night of UFC 128 that cemented the star as a certified future Hall-of-Famer.
Opening the round with a flying knee and a barrage of kicks, Jones quickly implemented his grappling, overwhelming the then-light heavyweight champion. It soon became clear that the pace of the fight was already wearing on Shogun Rua, and the referee decided to call an end to the bout midway through the third round.
Watch the iconic 205lb title clash in the video below.
Jon Jones title fights: How has 'Bones' fared in championship bouts?
After getting his first look at being a champion following his one-sided win over Shogun 12 years ago, Jon Jones has gone from strength to strength in the cage and a flawless entity in title fights.
Following UFC 128, the now-35-year-old made eight successful defenses of the strap before being forced to vacate due to an incident outside the octagon. This eight-fight run could rival anybody else in the sport as he overcame names like Daniel Cormier, Glover Teixeira, Vitor Belfort, and Rampage Jackson.
After a win over Ovince Saint Preux, a no-contest in the Cormier rematch, and a number of controversies, Jones returned, beating Alexander Gustafsson, Anthony Smith, Thiago Santos, and Dominick Reyes. He took a hiatus from the sport before making a sensational comeback and earning a quick stoppage over Ciryl Gane, extending his UFC title record to 16-0—which includes an interim title.