- George Chung
- Nov 11, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 17, 2024
The UFC returns to New York City’s Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2024, for UFC 309, featuring one of the most anticipated heavyweight battles of the year. The historic showdown between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic headlines this thrilling night, with the co-main event showcasing a lightweight bout between two of the division’s most exciting fighters, Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler.
From the main card to the early prelims, UFC 309 promises high-octane action with a stacked lineup of fights that fans won’t want to miss. Here’s everything to know about each matchup, from the fighters' styles to what to expect in the Octagon.
Fight Schedule (USA Timings):
Early Prelims: 6 pm ET / 3 pm PT (Nov. 16)
Main Card: 10 pm ET / 7 pm PT (Nov. 16)
Main Event: Jon Jones (Champion) vs. Stipe Miocic
The main event sees Jon “Bones” Jones, the reigning heavyweight champion, taking on former champion Stipe Miocic. This fight will showcase the athleticism, resilience, and skills of two of the greatest heavyweights in UFC history.
Known for his unorthodox striking, impressive reach, and strategic grappling, Jones has built an unmatched resume across two weight divisions. After claiming the heavyweight title, he looks to cement his legacy further against one of the division’s toughest competitors.
A former champion with powerful boxing, top-notch conditioning, and remarkable durability, Miocic has taken down some of the biggest names in the division. His experience and ability to push the pace make him a formidable challenge for Jones.
Expect Jones to use his reach advantage and mix up his attacks with strikes, clinches, and potential ground control. Miocic may rely on his boxing and grappling defense to test Jones in close quarters. Fans should prepare for a war of strategies, as both fighters will likely pace themselves in the early rounds to land fight-ending blows in the later rounds.
Co-Main Event: Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler
The co-main event is a clash between two former title challengers with unfinished business in the lightweight division. Charles Oliveira, known for his slick submissions and relentless striking, faces Michael Chandler, a powerhouse with knockout power and wrestling pedigree.
Oliveira’s striking has evolved significantly over his career, and combined with his elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he’s a dual threat on the feet and the ground. He will look to keep Chandler on his toes with constant pressure and quick transitions.
Known for his explosive power and resilience, Chandler is a force to be reckoned with. His powerful punches and wrestling background make him dangerous in exchanges and on the ground.
Fans can expect fast-paced exchanges and a possible fight-ending moment at any time. Oliveira’s edge may come in the form of his submission game, while Chandler’s power could be a game-changer, especially early in the fight.
Other Main Card Bouts
Bo Nickal vs. Paul Craig
A grappler’s dream, this matchup brings rising star Bo Nickal, an NCAA wrestling champion, against submission specialist Paul Craig. With a wrestling foundation and expanding striking game, Nickal’s approach is methodical yet aggressive, often dictating the pace and taking the fight to the mat. Craig’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu background and ability to finish fights with submissions from unexpected positions make him a dangerous opponent. Nickal may look to control Craig on the ground while avoiding submissions, while Craig aims to catch Nickal in a scramble. The fight will be a test of Nickal’s grappling composure and Craig’s adaptability.
Karine Silva vs. Viviane Araujo
This women’s flyweight bout brings together Silva’s finishing instinct and Araujo’s experience. Silva’s aggressive style and penchant for submissions and finishes make her a formidable opponent for any flyweight. Araujo’s well-rounded game, with solid stand-up and ground defense, gives her an edge in pacing and strategy. Silva may look for an early finish, while Araujo’s game plan could involve outlasting Silva’s aggressive style and capitalizing on any openings.
Mauricio Ruffy vs. James Llontop
This matchup of emerging fighters promises to bring the heat to the main card. Known for relentless grappling and ground control, Ruffy’s strength lies in his scrambles and ground pressure. Llontop’s striking is polished, with solid footwork and knockout power, making him a serious threat if he can keep the fight standing. Ruffy may try to close the distance and engage in grappling exchanges, while Llontop looks to control the fight with his striking from a distance.
Preliminary Card Bouts
Jonathan Martinez vs. Marcus McGhee
A bantamweight bout that brings together Martinez’s precision striking against McGhee’s powerful stand-up.
Chris Weidman vs. Eryk Anders
Former middleweight champion Chris Weidman returns to face the explosive Eryk Anders. Weidman’s grappling prowess will face Anders’ raw power and striking.
Jim Miller vs. Damon Jackson
This lightweight clash showcases Miller’s experience against Jackson’s aggressive fighting style, promising a gritty, all-out battle.
Marcin Tybura vs. Jhonata Diniz
Heavyweight fighters Tybura and Diniz bring power and experience to the Octagon, with Tybura’s well-rounded skill set facing Diniz’s knockout potential.
Mickey Gall vs. Ramiz Brahimaj
A welterweight showdown where Gall’s submission game will meet Brahimaj’s grappling and striking, setting up an exciting ground battle.
Oban Elliott vs. Bassil Hafez
This welterweight clash features Elliott’s striking finesse against Hafez’s solid grappling, ensuring an engaging contest.
Veronica Hardy vs. Eduarda Moura
In the women’s flyweight division, Hardy’s technical approach faces Moura’s aggression, making for an exciting and unpredictable matchup.
UFC 309 is a must-watch event for fight fans everywhere. From Jon Jones’ quest to further his legacy against Stipe Miocic to Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler’s all-out war, this card is a showcase of elite MMA.
Mark your calendars for an epic night of fights!
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