The real deal, how? He lost. 2nd place is 1st loser. I'd say he was the real deal had he won, but this isn't Rocky. You don't get brownie points for overachieving above expectations of being blown out. Only in UFC's WWE-like marketing universe is Gus the people's champ and deserving of a quick rematch. Otherwise, to be the man you have to beat the man.
Naw bruh, that fight rightful left Gus fans feeling good about a rematch and Jones just won by the strength of the last 2 rounds. One of those first 3 rounds def went to Gus and the other 2 just depend on who you're most biased towards lol. But either way, I'd have to say the hype is now warranted, Gus surprisingly held his own and could've got the decision. He's no Connor McGregor at this point who's not beaten anyone important but getting all this "future GOAT!" hype.