J. Jones at a press conference after the UFC 239. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC
Jon Jones He fought a battle that will certainly remain in his memory forever. After putting his light heavyweight belt (up to 93kg.) back on the line, this Saturday (6), at UFC 239, and defeat the Brazilian Thiago Marreta, the North American stated that the Rio native is the strongest athlete he has ever fought against. The champion spoke about the clash in a press conference after the event. 'Bones' appeared in the press room in a wheelchair.
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“He’s the strongest guy I’ve ever faced. He hit me really hard. Even when I blocked his punches, I felt it. I believe Thiago represented his team and his country very well. I wish him all the best. He must feel very proud”, declared 'Bones', who spoke further about what the clash meant for his career. "I am very satisfied. Having a fight like this is extremely satisfying. It encourages you to study harder, work harder and take your work even more seriously”, said the champion.
The North American was also asked about his physical condition after facing the Rio native. After the triumph, both athletes left the Octagon supported by their teams, clearly demonstrating that they felt the consequences of the hard blows delivered during the fight.
“At the moment, my foot hurts and other parts of my body. But I believe it's just pain. I don’t think it’s a serious injury,” Jones said.
'Bones' also commented on his strategy during the fight. According to the North American, he wanted to act in the area where he knows his opponent best. Marreta is a muay thai black belt and, according to the champion, he wanted to defeat his opponent in his best style.
“He (Marreta) is a muay thai black belt, so I wanted to fight him standing up. I could have taken the fight to the ground and seen what would happen. But I wanted to beat him at what he does best. The pain in the body is a consequence of having drawn up this strategy”, commented Jon.
Asked if he would accept a possible duel in the heavyweight category (up to 120,2 kg.) against the winner between Daniel Cormier (champion) and Stipe Miocic, which takes place on August 17th, at UFC 241, if a significant amount were offered, Jones did not shy away from the answer.
"For sure. Me and Daniel (Cormier) are speaking the same language. This fight hasn't happened yet because the UFC had already scheduled our commitments, but I believe that, if the opportunity arises, Daniel and I will be happy”, confirmed Jones. The champion also said he would face Miocic if he defeats DC in the August fight, but his preference is, in fact, for his eternal rival. “I would also fight Stipe, but my preference is for Cormier, because he already has his secrets”, concluded the athlete.
With the triumph over Marreta, Jones completed his second title defense since regaining his number one position by beating Alexander Gustafson after serving a suspension in a doping case. The athlete hasn't known what it's like to lose for almost 10 years.
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