Jones returns to crush Gane and win UFC heavyweight crown

Former light heavyweight champion Jones, making his return to the Octagon after more than a three-year absence, forced Gane into a submission after just 2min 4sec of the opening round to seal the win.

The 35-year-old American, who is widely considered to be the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, used all his skill and experience to outfox his 32-year-old French opponent.

Jones had talked boldly before the fight of scoring a quick victory against Gane, who hinted at nervousness in the opening seconds by aiming a kick at the American's groin which required an official timeout.

Jones proved to be as good as his word, easily ducking under a wild left hand from Gane and wrestling the off-balance Frenchman to the floor with ease.

He quickly had Gane in trouble and the Parisian submitted after being trapped in a guillotine chokehold by Jones.

"I've been working for this for a long time," a delighted Jones said after his victory.

"You know a lot of people thought I was never coming back. I'd read that all the time 'This dude's never coming back' – but I've been faithful to my goal, faithful to my mission."

Jones said while he was wary of Gane's prowess on his feet -- the Frenchman is a former kick-boxing champion -- he had always been confident of winning if the bout ended up on the canvas.

"I really had the strong conviction that if I could get him down to the ground the fight would be in my area," Jones said.

"I've been wrestling since I was 12 years old and I feel stronger and more comfortable, especially on the ground.

"With kickboxers you never know -– he zigs, I zag. And I actually felt a little goofy on my feet -– it's been a while.

"But once I got my hands on him I knew that's where I was most comfortable and I could take