Dana White recently told TMZ that a Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic fight made sense for their summer lineup but after recent details, it seems Jones and Miocic could be set to share the octagon later in the year.
The news was first reported by Alex Behunin on a Cageside Live episode for Cageside Press on YouTube.
The Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic Fight Will Make History
Jones (26-1-1 MMA, 20-1-1 UFC) was last seen in the cage at UFC 247 in February of 2020, defeating Dominick Reyes by a decision to retain his Light Heavyweight title. After defeating Reyes, Jones has vacated the title and a long-awaited heavyweight debut has been looming ever since late 2020.
‘Bones’ has won the light heavyweight championship on three separate occasions but was stripped once after testing positive for a turinabol metabolite which resulted in a no contest. Jones has defended the title 11 times total and eight times consecutively which is a UFC record for the division.
Miocic (20-4 MMA, 14-4 UFC) last fought at UFC 260 in March of 2021, losing his title to Francis Ngannou by KO in the second round. Former two-time heavyweight champ-Miocic has the record for most consecutive UFC heavyweight title defenses at three, making it four total title-fight victories for Miocic.
Both Jones and Miocic are generally considered the greatest in their respective divisions. After losing his title, Miocic has sat on the sidelines waiting for either a potential trilogy fight with current champ-Ngannou or welcoming Jones to the heavyweight division, all signs currently point to the latter.
The MMA World Reacts to the Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic Fight
Ariel Helwani chimed in with some of the details on the situation mid-Tuesday saying:
”Jon Jones’ advisor Richard Schaefer told me they are in dialogue with the UFC and “working” on his return but wouldn’t divulge much else. July 2 is way too soon, though, so don’t count on that. Especially if Stipe Miocic is involved. I can’t see that fight happening so soon.”
Jones gave his side via Twitter, stating: ”Stipe is saying that he will be at his absolute peak in September. I’m disappointed but patient, I want the heavyweight goat at his absolute best. I’ll wait until September. No excuses.”
Jones followed that up by replying to a fan on Twitter, saying: ”It really does man, my coaches and their families were definitely excited for this fight. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed today.”
No response from Miocic yet. Let’s hope this fight gets finalized soon, this is an amazing matchup between two of the most successful fighters in the UFC and has all the makings of a history-defining moment. Stay tuned to Overtime Heroics for any updating details on the situation surrounding the Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic fight.
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