Former champion Jon Jones has taken duty for Gable Steveson leaving the cage earlier than his loss was introduced at UFC 331.
On Saturday, Steveson was knocked out by seismic underdog Sean Sharaf in 12 seconds, in a scene that despatched the Los Angeles crowd into raptures.
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The outcome was the primary lack of Steveson’s younger profession – a profession that has introduced main expectations, as a result of American’s Olympic gold medal in wrestling.
Sean Sharaf (high) was a seismic underdog in opposition to Gable Steveson (Getty)
Expectations round Steveson, 26, had been solely heightened when he started coaching along with his pal Jones, one of the vital controversial personalities in UFC historical past.
And there was controversy on Saturday, when Steveson and Jones left the cage and ringside space earlier than their outcome was introduced.
Jones, 39, has now moved to deal with the matter, writing on social media: “I’ve seen some stories on line and I actually wished to clear the air.
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“It was my resolution to take Gable straight to the again after the battle. Truthfully it was the primary time on this scenario for me and my instantaneous response was to get my pal to the again to verify he was okay.
“Gable’s work ethic and can to win is there and I stand by him and imagine he’ll go on to be among the best heavyweights within the UFC. He shall be again I am certain of it.”
Steveson was 4-0 previous to UFC 331, with 4 first-round knockouts to his identify. Nevertheless, he had additionally proven himself to be uncooked, and Sharaf uncovered his inexperience.
Sharaf, a former US marine, was emotional within the cage after his win, and he informed reporters afterwards: “Yeah, I noticed him leaving, however I used to be eager about this earlier than the battle.
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“I used to be 4-0, I used to be undefeated after I had my first loss within the UFC, and he simply had his first loss. It makes you higher; you are going to have a look again and you may’t underestimate individuals. You possibly can’t assume you are untouchable and also you’re simply going to run by means of individuals.
Jon Jones is a former two-weight UFC champion (Getty)
“I feel he is going to return, he’ll get higher. He is bought a hell of a variety of expertise, so I am certain you guys see him once more.
“I informed you the gameplan was hit, do not get hit, depart with a bag full of money. Everybody thought I used to be joking, however no, I am simply grateful. I am so grateful.
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“I prayed so arduous, I believed in myself, my workforce believed in me, and I am simply so completely happy. I am so completely happy for this second.
“I used to be simply treating this like each different battle. I do not put anybody on a pedestal. He has two arms, two legs, and he bleeds purple, so I assume I shocked the world, however I have not felt any completely different. I am undoubtedly getting extra interviews, that is for certain, however that is about it.”
