MMA News Roundup: Stipe Miocic Confirms Date for Jon Jones Fight, Conor McGregor’s Legal Troubles and BKFC Deal, Art Jimmerson Passes Away

In this edition of our daily MMA news roundup, we’ll be taking a look at some of the biggest stories in the world of mixed martial arts. The first headline will be focusing on the Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic fight update as it seems that there is a date and venue lined up for their canceled bout from UFC 295.

The MMA world was also dealt a shock with the news of the passing away of a memorable name from UFC 1, Art Jimmerson and UFC CEO Dana White took the time to share a heartfelt message for the same on social media. And finally, we’ll take a look at Conor McGregor putting the finishing touches on his deal with BKFC and has officially become a part-owner of the promotion but is now facing a dilemma in the ongoing saga of his legal battle with Artem Lobov!  

Stipe Miocic reveals venue and time for Jon Jones fight

Jon Jones was set to make his first defense of his UFC heavyweight title against former champion, Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 in 2023. However, due to Jones suffering a torn pectoral tendon during a training session shortly before the event, he had to withdraw from the bout, leading to UFC CEO Dana White setting up an interim title bout between Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich.

Jones has been on the road to recovery since and has recently indicated that he is getting ready to get back into the Octagon soon. As such, Stipe Miocic recently made an appearance on the Jaxxon podcast where he revealed, “They (UFC) were talking about July, that passed on… I’m thinking more — maybe November again in New York.”

His remarks indicate that the UFC is ready to re-book the clash between the two legends, and Jones has also indicated in recent statements online that he is willing to take on Miocic first before he focuses on other challenges in the UFC. In a recent post on X, Jones stated, “I am not changing my plans for anyone. Stipe is over there as the best heavyweight ever working his ass off. I’m gonna give that man what he wants…”

Art Jimmerson’s passing draws a touching response from UFC and Dana White

Art Jimmerson, a key figure in the early days of the UFC, passed away recently, leaving a significant legacy in the world of mixed martial arts. As one of the participants in the inaugural UFC event in 1993, Jimmerson played a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s history.

Before his venture into MMA, Jimmerson had a successful career as a professional boxer, competing in multiple weight divisions. His amateur achievements, including winning the 1983 National Golden Gloves Middleweight championship, showcased his talent and dedication to the sport.

On November 12th, 1993, Jimmerson made history by stepping into the cage to face Royce Gracie, a legendary figure in martial arts. Jimmerson’s decision to wear only one glove on his left hand during the fight became iconic, symbolizing the fusion of different combat disciplines in MMA.

Following his passing, the UFC and Dana White expressed their condolences to Jimmerson’s family and friends. The official statement from the UFC emphasized the organization’s recognition of Jimmerson’s contributions to the sport, highlighting the impact of his legacy on the MMA community. In honoring Jimmerson’s memory, the MMA community pays tribute to a true pioneer whose impact extends far beyond the confines of the Octagon.

Conor McGregor seals his BKFC part-ownership as Artem Lobov legal feud takes another turn

The combat sports world was left in a frenzy when Conor McGregor announced that he and his business venture, McGregor Sports & Entertainment are “now an owner of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship” or BKFC. The announcement came at the KnuckleMania 4 event and in a recent update, the deal has now been made official with the signing of the contract.

In a video from ‘The Notorious’s ‘Black Forge Inn’ in Dublin, the Irish MMA icon can be seen with BKFC founder and president, David Feldman, with both men appearing excited about their new partnership. Once he puts his name on the papers, McGregor exclaims, “Rocket to the moon, brother”, highlighting the prospect of his association with BKFC possibly bringing more eyes to the sport and the promotion.

However, all is not well in the world of McGregor as the Irishman’s ongoing legal feud with friend-turned-foe, Artem Lobov has received an update. The rift between them began when Lobov demanded his share of profits from McGregor’s ‘Proper No. 12’ whiskey brand sale from 2021 and Lobov alleged that he was promised 5% of the profits, and took the matter to the legal system.

Now, McGregor has been ordered by the court to disclose his personal earnings from the brand sale, potentially resulting in a loss of around $20 million for McGregor. Lobov alleges he was sidelined from the deal by McGregor’s team.

According to Lobov, the profit-sharing agreement was made verbally at a gym in Dublin in 2017. However, McGregor denies this, asserting his intention to create his whiskey brand predates Lobov’s involvement.

As the legal battle intensifies, Lobov remains steadfast in his pursuit of what he believes is rightfully his. McGregor, on the other hand, continues to contest Lobov’s claims, and with a 24-hour deadline from the court to disclose his earnings from the deal, it remains to be seen how the situation plays out in the future.