Stipe Miocic is a name synonymous with toughness and resilience in the heavyweight division. He is poised to make his much-anticipated return to the Octagon after a two-year hiatus. His last bout against Francis Ngannou ended with a crushing knockout, leaving fans both excited and concerned about his comeback. Especially considering his age, 41, and the formidable opponent he faces in Jon Jones.
Miocic, however, firmly believes that his extensive experience in the heavyweight division will provide him with the edge he needs to reignite his career. Having previously conquered Daniel Cormier twice before his setback against Ngannou, Miocic remains one of the most formidable heavyweights in the sport. He is confident that Jon Jones is in for a rude awakening come UFC 295.
Stipe Miocic thinks Jon Jones might be underestimating heavyweights
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When asked in an MMA Junkie interview about the unique aspect of heavyweight fighting that Jones may not yet have experienced, Miocic emphasized the undeniable power wielded by heavyweights.
He stated, “I think of course power is no question. Big men in there throwing bombs and you know, doesn’t matter if you throw hard or not, I mean just all that weight behind a punch, and with small gloves, anything can happen.”
In the headlining match of UFC 295, Miocic will challenge heavyweight champion Jon Jones. This battle of titans is scheduled for November 11 at Madison Square Garden in New York. Jon Jones, who reigned over the UFC’s light heavyweight division for nearly a decade, made the bold move to relinquish his title and venture into the heavyweight territory. Miocic, however, asserts that the heavyweight landscape is markedly distinct, and Jones will face a different challenge.
While Jon Jones has not responded to Miocic’s remarks, the former heavyweight champion brings a valid perspective, having squared off against impressive knockout artists like Junior Dos Santos and Francis Ngannou.
Miocic vs. Jones is a legacy-defining matchup
Stipe Miocic boasts an illustrious career, holding the record for consecutive UFC heavyweight title defenses with three—a remarkable feat in a weight class known for its volatility.
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In the same interview, Miocic was asked about his motivation to compete at this stage in his career. He replied, “There’s a lot of reasons: One, I want to fight the best. I’m a competitor. I love to compete and I love fighting. I’m still having fun. My last fight didn’t go as well as I wanted it to. I’m ready to bounce back and get that win.”
Jon Jones made a dazzling debut in the heavyweight division by swiftly submitting the French striking specialist, Ciryl Gane, in the first round. He showcased his prowess by absorbing a mere seven strikes in his submission victory over Gane. Claiming the vacant heavyweight championship. This victory raised expectations for his journey in the new weight class.
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As the UFC 295 matchup between these two MMA legends approaches, the question remains: Does Stipe Miocic possess the power required to halt Jon Jones? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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