Jon “Bones” Jones captivated a packed Madison Square Garden, including President-elect Donald Trump, as he proclaimed, “Jesus loves you,” and credited his victory to God after defending his UFC heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309.
“I can’t take credit for a gift like this—I owe it all to Him,” said the 37-year-old champion in his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan. Jones emphasized his faith to the global audience, adding, “Jesus loves you so much. That’s all I’ll say about that.”
Jones (28-1) retained his title with a dominant TKO win over Miocic (20-5) at 4:29 of the third round. The decisive moment came with a spinning back kick to Miocic’s midsection, cementing Jones’s record-breaking 16th UFC title fight victory.
The star-studded audience included Trump, Elon Musk, UFC CEO Dana White, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, and Kid Rock. After his win, Jones acknowledged Trump, thanking him for attending and presenting him with the championship belt. The fighter even mimicked Trump’s signature dance before expressing pride in his faith and patriotism.
“I’m proud to be a great American champion,” Jones declared. “I’m proud to be a Christian-American champion.” Trump, visibly amused, invited Jones to the White House next year, calling him a “true warrior.”
Jones, the son of Pentecostal pastor Arthur Jones, is well-known for integrating his faith into his public life. His tattoo of Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”—is a constant reminder of his beliefs. “It’s about being strong for the people who see my tattoo and believe in it. I’ve gotta be strong for the King,” Jones explained in a 2019 interview.
Pastor Arthur Jones initially discouraged his son’s MMA aspirations, envisioning him as a preacher instead. However, over time, he recognized the spiritual dimension of his son’s career.
“In biblical times, warfare was part of life—David and Goliath, Sampson, the battles of the Israelites,” the pastor reflected. “Jon trains for every fight, not just physically but spiritually.”
Even as a child, Jones displayed an undeniable presence. “He didn’t have to say ‘pick me up,’” the elder Jones recalled. “He just had a commanding presence, even as a baby."
With his latest triumph, Jones continues to attribute his resilience and success to his unwavering faith, using his platform to inspire millions around the world.