INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — NOTE: The interview in the player above took place before the fight on Saturday
"What a night" it was, but now, the best heavyweight fighter in UFC history is back where he wants to be most.
Stipe Miocic was back home in Cuyahoga County just hours after beating Daniel Cormier to retain his heavyweight title. The champ later posted a heartwarming photo on Instagram of him playing with his 2-year-old daughter Meelah, whom he called his "toughest opponent yet."
"Nothing but thanks, love and respect to my team, my family, and my fans," Miocic wrote after the emotional victory. "It’s truly an honor to put on a show for you!...This one was for you baby girl"
The fight was the third in a trilogy between Miocic and Cormier, and may have been the best yet. After splitting the first two matches with knockout victories, the two legends went the full five rounds before Stipe was declared the winner by a close but unanimous decision.
BEFORE THE FIGHT: Stipe guaranteed win over Cormier during pre-fight interview with 3News' Jay Crawford
Miocic is now 6-1 all-time in UFC title fights, with the only loss coming in that first bout against the future Hall of Famer Cormier (who claims he has fought for the last time). Many have put him in the conversation with stars like Jim Brown and LeBron James as among the best athletes in Cleveland history.
Miocic has also gained recognition for his work as a firefighter and paramedic in Valley View, something he has talked about doing full-time after his MMA career is over. However, his status as a world-class fighter doesn't exactly earn him any extra cache around the firehouse.
"They s--t on me more than anyone ever s--t on me in my life," Miocic said Sunday after the fight. "They make me do things I don't want to do, and it's all awesome."
When Stipe's next fight will take place is still a matter of discussion. For the moment, he's just going to (justifiably) enjoy the thrill of victory.