In a night filled with high energy, star power, and an electrifying atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, Jon “Bones” Jones retained his undisputed UFC heavyweight champion title with a decisive victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. But it wasn’t just his remarkable performance in the octagon that made headlines—it was his bold declaration of faith that captivated millions.

After his third-round TKO victory, which included a spinning back kick to Miocic’s midsection, Jones (28-1) addressed the cheering crowd and a global audience. Speaking to UFC commentator Joe Rogan, Jones proclaimed, “I cannot take credit for a gift like this, and I really owe it all to Him. I just want to let you guys know that Jesus loves you so much. That’s all I’ll say about that.”

The victory, which extended Jones’s UFC record to 16 title fight wins, was witnessed by thousands of fans in attendance, including President-elect Donald Trump, Elon Musk, UFC CEO Dana White, and other notable figures. Jones expressed his gratitude to Trump, even presenting him with the championship belt and humorously imitating his viral dance. “I’m proud to be a great American champion. I’m proud to be a Christian-American champion,” Jones said.

Trump, who smiled and applauded Jones’s gesture, invited the fighter to the White House after he takes office next year as the 47th president of the United States.

Jones, the son of Pentecostal pastor Arthur Jones, has never shied away from sharing his faith. With “Philippians 4:13” tattooed on his chest—a verse declaring, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”—Jones frequently attributes his strength and resilience to his relationship with God.

In past interviews, Jones has reflected on his faith, saying, “I have to be strong for the people that see my tattoo and believe it. I’ve gotta be strong for the King.”

His father, Pastor Arthur Jones of Mount Sinai Church of God in Christ in Binghamton, New York, initially hesitated about his son pursuing an MMA career, encouraging him to pursue ministry instead. However, he later embraced the connection between faith and combat sports, comparing his son’s training to the biblical warriors of old. “In biblical times, there was always warfare: David and Goliath, Sampson, the enemies of the Israelites. My son trains for every fight, not just physically but spiritually,” the elder Jones explained.

Jones’s victory not only solidified his legacy as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time but also served as a powerful platform for his faith. His words, “Jesus loves you,” delivered on one of the sport’s grandest stages, resonated with countless viewers around the world.