Jon Jones experienced a shocking start to his Dirty Boxing Championship as co-owner, witnessing his teammate get knocked out swiftly.
Earlier this week, it was surprisingly announced that Jon Jones, the UFC heavyweight champion, had become a co-owner of a new combat sports organization: Dirty Boxing Championship.
This news arrived while Jones` UFC future is uncertain, with negotiations ongoing for a potential title unification fight against interim champion Tom Aspinall. Interestingly, the inaugural Dirty Boxing Championship event coincided with a UFC event in London, where Aspinall playfully mocked Jones by bringing a rubber duck.
Teammate Maurice Greene Suffers Quick KO
Although Dirty Boxing Championship previously held an event in November featuring a Yoel Romero knockout, it was a private, unbroadcast affair.
Saturday marked the promotion`s first public event, held at the Hangar in Regatta Harbour, Miami, Florida. Yoel Romero again headlined the event.
Given this was the first event since Jones` ownership announcement, it featured his longtime teammate and former UFC fighter, Maurice Greene, facing Rakim Cleveland.
Unfortunately for Jones and his team, this new venture began poorly. Greene was brutally knocked out in just 40 seconds.
Almost immediately after the fight began, Greene attacked with a 1-2 combination, possibly injuring his own shoulder. After a counter punch, he briefly touched the mat with his hands.
Cleveland then landed several heavy blows, sending Greene through the ropes and seemingly unconscious.
Following the referee`s intervention, Greene appeared to be shaking on the ground, possibly trying to reset his shoulder, according to commentators.
Despite this, Greene continued to shake as he stood and limped out of the ring, his condition unclear.
UFC Fighter Criticizes Greene`s Corner
The scene was unsettling, especially as a ringside doctor seemed passive in assisting Greene to his stool.
Furthermore, Greene`s coaches were absent after the fight, leaving him to exit the ring unaided.
UFC veteran Charles Johnson questioned the absence of Greene`s corner on social media, expressing concern for Greene`s well-being and the lack of immediate support.
