UFC 309 Returns to Old Gloves Amid Controversy

UFC 309, set to occur at Madison Square Garden, will feature fighters using the old glove design rather than the new model introduced in June due to widespread dissatisfaction. Many fighters, including heavyweight champion Jon Jones, expressed discomfort with the new gloves, which were intended to reduce eye pokes, cuts, and hand injuries. The reversion to the old gloves was communicated by UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell, who cited the presence of veteran fighters as a reason for the change. The new gloves have been criticized for possibly leading to fewer knockouts, though this remains speculative. This event marks Jones' first title defense after a notable hiatus, adding further intrigue to the glove switch. UFC 309 will also feature a rematch between Michael Chandler and Charles Oliveira in the co-main event.