Is Stipe Miocic Retired? Did the Ex-Champ Hang Up His Gloves After Jon Jones’ Injury Forced Dana White to Make Late Replacements at UFC 295?

UFC 295 was anticipated as the long-awaited comeback of Stipe Miocic to the Octagon. Miocic is a former 2-time heavyweight champion in the UFC. He has earned a reputation as one of the finest heavyweights in UFC history due to his victories over prominent fighters such as Daniel Cormier, Fabricio Werdum, and Francis Ngannou. The Ohio native also holds the record for most title defenses at heavyweight, with 3 consecutive defenses to his name.

Nonetheless, with Jon Jones withdrawing from UFC 295 because of an injury, fans now ponder Miocic’s future. The UFC promoted the fight as a legacy-defining match, potentially signifying the conclusion of their careers. Reports of the injury indicate that Jones will be out of competition for a while. And fans now wonder if Miocic might retire before Jones comes back!

Will Stipe Miocic retire after Jon Jones fight falls through at UFC 295

Dana White, UFC CEO, disclosed the news about Jon Jones and his injury on social media. He stated that Jones had suffered from a torn pectoral tendon while wrestling during training. The post also included a video showing Jones attempting to wrestle with a partner before abruptly stopping and clutching at his injured chest.

Stipe Miocic hasn’t fought in the UFC since 2021. He faced Francis Ngannou at UFC 260 where he fell to ‘The Predator’s incredible knockout power in the second round. After his loss, Miocic had taken an extended hiatus from competition. After the Jon Jones fight was offered to him, Miocic decided to return to reclaim his title at UFC 295.  And he wanted to prove to the fans that he is still one of the best heavyweights on the planet.

In an interview with MMA Fighting, Miocic revealed that retirement isn’t a concern for him while preparing for fights. He stated, “Right now, I’m just focused on November 11. That’s all I care about. Once it’s done, we’ll figure it out.”

But now that Dana White has confirmed the interim heavyweight title fight at UFC 295, pitting Tom Aspinall against Sergei Pavlovich, he has explained why Miocic wasn’t presented with the opportunity for the interim title. And his statements have left the possibility of Miocic returning next year still open.

Miocic will face Jon Jones again next year confirms Dana White amidst retirement speculation

As fans wonder if Stipe Miocic will fight Jon Jones in the future, Dana White has come out in support of the former champion. Reports indicated that the UFC intends to keep Miocic prepared for rescheduling the fight once Jones has recuperated.

White also revealed his reason behind not offering the interim title fight to Miocic at a Power Slap 5 post-fight press conference. He stated, “To even call Stipe and ask Stipe to fight for an interim title is complete disrespect.”

Read More: “I’m Committed” – Jon Jones Confirms Rematch With Stipe Miocic as HW Champ Gives Surgery Update After UFC 295 Debacle Following Injury

In summary, Stipe Miocic’s break from the UFC will continue until Jon Jones recovers from the injury that kept him out of UFC 295.  Jones has even stated his commitment to fighting Miocic once he recovers from his surgery and physical therapy.

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