WATCH: UFC champ Jon ‘Bones’ Jones, an ABQ resident, gives Trump title belt

Jon “Bones” Jones, who lives in Albuquerque, retained his UFC world heavyweight championship by defeating Stipe Miocic with a technical knockout Saturday night, then paid tribute to President-elect Donald Trump, who was seated ringside. Moments after ending the fight with a spinning back kick to Miocic’s ribs, Jones broke into Trump’s signature dance, thrilling a pro-Trump crowd at Madison Square Garden.

With the crowd roaring its approval, Jones pointed to Trump, who responded with a smile and a thumbs-up gesture. During his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Jones expressed his gratitude, saying, “A big, big thank you to President Donald Trump for being here tonight,” igniting even louder cheers. Jones then led the crowd in a spirited “USA! USA!” chant, emphasizing, “I’m proud to be a great American champion. I’m proud to be a Christian American champion.”

Following the interview, Jones approached Trump, who was seated with a group that included Elon Musk, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, Kid Rock, Vivek Ramaswamy, and singer Jelly Roll. Jones presented Trump with his UFC title belt, a symbolic gesture that drew enthusiastic applause. Trump responded by inviting Jones to visit the White House when he assumes office as the 47th President of the United States.

While Jones hinted at the possibility of continuing his fighting career, Miocic, now 42, announced his retirement in a conversation with Rogan. Miocic leaves behind a Hall of Fame-worthy career as one of the most accomplished heavyweight fighters in UFC history. Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time, now boasts a record of 28-1 with one no contest.

Trump’s presence at Madison Square Garden marked a triumphant return following his recent electoral victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. The crowd erupted as he entered the arena with his star-studded entourage, prompting Rogan to remark, “If people at home could hear the sound in this room right now. It is so loud! It’s always loud when he comes in, but now that he’s won [the election], now that he’s the president again, oh my God!”

Throughout the evening, Trump witnessed numerous high-profile bouts, including a co-main event where Charles Oliveira defeated Michael Chandler by unanimous decision. Chandler, a Trump supporter, also exchanged words with the president-elect after his fight, adding to the night’s electric atmosphere.