Mason Jones targets UFC rise after triumphant return

Jones’ previous UFC appearance had ended in defeat by Ludovit Klein, an experience he now sees as a key turning point.

“I screwed myself last time,” he said. “I didn’t listen to my coaches. This time, I promised I would.”

Jones’ new-found discipline was evident in the final round of a bruising contest against Stephens.

After two frantic rounds that left both fighters bloodied and without gumshields following heavy exchanges, Jones opted for control rather than chaos.

“It was a bit of a dogfight but in the third, I listened,” he said.

“My corner told me I had to take him down and get the job done. That’s exactly what I did.”

Jones says he stuck to the game plan, prioritising his win bonus over the chance of a bonus-worthy finish.

“I know it’s boring for fans but I’d rather make sure of the win than chase £50k,” he said. “That third round probably cost me the bonus but I’ll take the win every time.”

The fight marked the end of the road for Stephens, a UFC veteran of more than 30 bouts, and Jones was quick to pay tribute.

“He’s a beast and a legend in his own right,” he said. “It was an honour to be the one to send him into retirement.”