Stipe Miocic was all set to reclaim his title at UFC 295. The former two-time heavyweight champion had been on a hiatus since his loss to Francis Ngannou at UFC 260 in 2021. Ngannou knocked him out in the 2nd round to take the title away from the Ohio native. After a long time, Miocic planned to return against Jon Jones at UFC 295.
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But it was recently revealed by UFC CEO Dana White that Jon Jones is out of the fight due to an injury he suffered while wrestling with a training partner. The injury is severe enough to require surgery and a possible eight months or more for recovery. Therefore, White announced an Interim title fight at UFC 295 to replace Miocic vs Jones. That decision has seemingly rubbed Miocic the wrong way.
Stipe Miocic is against Dana White and UFC’s decision for UFC 295
Dana White made a statement on social media where he revealed Jon Jones was out of UFC 295 due to a torn pectoral tendon. White also released footage showing Jones clutching his torso in apparent discomfort. Due to the long recovery time for the injury, White announced Tom Aspinall vs. Sergei Pavlovich for the Interim UFC heavyweight title.
But this decision has caused Stipe Miocic to come out and express his displeasure. Stipe, who is now on OnlyF*ns, Miocic released a video and revealed his honest thoughts on the events that transpired. “I don’t know why I didn’t get picked…”
Miocic further went on to explain that he did not agree with Dana White’s decision to not offer him a shot at the Interim title at UFC 295. He stated, “It wasn’t my choice, it was theirs…. I want that belt back. It’s my belt. It’s going to happen.“
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Miocic also elaborated that he wishes to test himself against the “biggest fish,” which is Jon Jones. However, he wasn’t happy about getting sidelined after the bout got canceled. These comments come after White had stated he had a particular reason to not offer Stipe the fight. But with Miocic’s revelations about his thoughts on the matter, White’s claims have now come under scrutiny.
Dana White claims he didn’t offer Miocic the Interim title fight due to ‘respect’
Jon Jones’ injury will keep him away from the UFC until 2024. Thus, Dana White decided to create the Interim heavyweight title bout between Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich for UFC 295. Pavlovich is known for his knockout power, while Aspinall is considered one of the most well-rounded and skilled heavyweights on the roster.
White stated that he had a reason for not picking Miocic. And with Miocic’s recent comments, it is hard not to see White’s reasoning behind this decision.
In a press conference at a ‘PowerSlap’ event, White stated, “This is a legacy fight for both of those guys. To even call Stipe and ask Stipe to fight for an interim title is, you know, complete disrespect.”
White’s comments are significant, as Miocic has now claimed that he would have accepted the Interim title fight. But with Jon Jones confirming his commitment to fighting Miocic on his return, fans will be waiting to see how the story develops further.
Do you think Dana White should have offered Stipe Miocic the chance to fight for the Interim title at UFC 295? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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