It has been over a yr since UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic was first introduced at Worldwide Struggle Week 2023. The legendary champions goal a November date in New York Metropolis, one full yr after their earlier Madison Sq. Backyard headliner was canceled. The dream match remains to be a precedence for the promotion however parity within the heavyweight division has since grow to be a problem.
Tom Aspinall acquired the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295, defeating Sergei Pavlovich, after an injured Jones pulled out of the Miocic combat. The UFC might have petitioned for Miocic vs. Aspinall at UFC 295, however they pulled Miocic to protect the unique bout. UFC president Dana White insists Aspinall should watch for Jones vs. Miocic regardless of Aspinall’s meritocratic declare to a title unifier. Aspinall was given two selections: wait indefinitely or defend the interim title. A annoyed Aspinall ultimately conceded and can stake his interim title in opposition to Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 on July 27, solely the fourth time in UFC’s 31-year historical past that an interim title can be defended.
“I get it. I would really feel the identical manner however I am not taking something away from him,” Miocic instructed CBS Sports activities. “The UFC can do what they need. It’s what it’s. There’s just one man I need to combat, it is Jon Jones. However on the identical time, the UFC can choose who they need.Â
“What am I imagined to do? I am not holding up the division like everybody says. I do not care. Do what you need and cease crying. I am not saying he is crying. I am simply saying like followers and stuff like that.”
Miocic’s resume provides him a strong case for a right away title shot in most conditions. Miocic holds the document for many consecutive and most general UFC heavyweight title defenses. He’s additionally tied with Randy Couture for many wins in UFC heavyweight title fights. However he is coming off a three-and-a-half-year layoff in opposition to arguably the best MMA fighter of all time, 5 years his junior. It is a tall job, however Miocic says it is precisely why he needs to see it by.
“Everybody thinks he’ll beat my ass,” Miocic stated. “I do not like being instructed that. I like shutting folks up. He is beatable. I do know he’s. Anybody is beatable and I would be the first to do that.
“I’m very aggressive and can by no means lose it. It is in my DNA. I like what I do and have the most effective coaches on the planet to organize me at any time when the combat comes up.”
Take a look at the total interview with Stipe Miocic under.