UFC 309 is set to take place on November 16, 2024, at Madison Square Garden in New York City, featuring a highly anticipated heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. However, just days before the event, the UFC has announced significant changes to the fight card and a controversial switch back to old glove designs.
Key Takeaways
- Jon Jones returns to defend his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic.
- Last-minute changes to the fight card due to medical issues and weight discrepancies.
- Fighters will use the old glove design instead of the newly introduced ones.
Last-Minute Changes to Fight Card
As the UFC 309 event approaches, the promotion has been forced to make adjustments to both the main and preliminary fight cards. Notably, the lightweight bout between Mauricio Ruffy and James Llontop has been changed to a catchweight contest at 165 pounds. The UFC has not disclosed the reasons behind this decision.
Additionally, Lucas Almeida has been replaced by Roberto "El Charro Negro" Romero in a preliminary matchup against David Onama due to undisclosed medical issues. Romero, a 24-year-old veteran from Combate Global, will compete at 155 pounds.
Glove Controversy
In a surprising turn of events, UFC fighters were informed that they would be using the old glove design for UFC 309, which had been replaced earlier this year. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially given the recent introduction of new gloves aimed at reducing eye pokes and hand injuries.
Jon Jones expressed relief at the return of the old gloves, stating that the new design was uncomfortable and did not fit well. He noted that the new gloves made it difficult to train and compete effectively. The UFC has not provided a clear explanation for this reversal, leading to speculation among fans and analysts.
Implications of the Glove Change
The decision to revert to the old gloves has sparked discussions about the potential impact on fight outcomes. Some analysts have pointed out that since the introduction of the new gloves, there has been a noticeable decrease in knockouts, with a 10% drop reported. This has raised concerns about the entertainment value of the fights, as fans often look forward to exciting finishes.
Upcoming Fights to Watch
UFC 309 promises to deliver thrilling matchups beyond the main event. The co-headliner features former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira facing Michael Chandler, who has been waiting for a chance to return to the octagon. Additionally, rising stars Mauricio Ruffy and Bo Nickal will also be making their appearances, adding to the excitement of the card.
Conclusion
As UFC 309 approaches, fans are eager to see how the last-minute changes and glove controversy will affect the fights. With a stacked card and high stakes, the event is shaping up to be a memorable night in mixed martial arts history. Don’t miss the action on November 16, 2024, at Madison Square Garden!
Sources
- ‘Medical issues,’ weight snafus force last-minute changes to both UFC 309 main card and ‘prelims’ lineup – MMAmania.com, MMAmania.com.
- Jon Jones ‘Relieved’ Old Gloves Inexplicably Restored For UFC 309 Comeback: ‘Very Uncomfortable’ – MMAmania.com, MMAmania.com.
- NYC Screwjob? Power-Less New Gloves Inexplicably Shelved Ahead Of Serial Eye-Poker Jon Jones’ UFC 309 Return – MMAmania.com, MMAmania.com.
- Fighters notified they will be using the “old gloves” this Saturday at UFC 309 | BJPenn.com, BJPenn.com.
