UFC free fight: Promotional debutant Jon Jones upsets Andre Gusmao at UFC 87

When Jon Jones stepped into the UFC cage for the first time in 2008, few people predicted the records he would set under the promotion’s banner.

As a 21-year-old light heavyweight, Jones debuted at UFC 87. A slight underdog, Jones upset undefeated Andre Gusmao with a unanimous decision. The fight kicked off an illustrious career for Jones that has seen him capture and defend the UFC light heavyweight title multiple times.

Since his debut more than 11 years ago, Jones (26-1 MMA, 20-1 UFC) has beaten a who’s-who of top 205-pound challengers. From Daniel Cormier to Alexander Gustafsson to Quinton Jackson and beyond, Jones has defeated everyone put in his path – well, except for a 2009 disqualification loss against Matt Hamill, of course.

UFC 87 took place Aug. 9, 2008, at Target Center in Minneapolis. The event was headlined by UFC welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre, who defended his title against surging challenger Jon Fitch. Also on the card, Brock Lesnar competed in his third MMA fight against Heath Herring. Jones vs. Gusmao was the third fight of the night.

Check out Jones’ win over Gusmao at UFC 87 in the video above.