Reigning UFC heavyweight champion, Jon Jones has withdrawn from the UFC 295 bout against Stipe Miocic. Jones expressed his regret to Miocic following the decision, which forced him to withdraw due to a torn pectoral tendon he sustained during wrestling. The highly anticipated match was scheduled for November 11 at MSG.
After the unfortunate cancellation of the bout, the UFC revised the card. The co-main event now features Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich competing for an interim heavyweight title. The focus now shifts to Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka, who will contend for the vacant light heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 295.
Jon Jones issues apology to Stipe Miocic
Jones took to Instagram to share his thoughts. He plans to undergo surgery soon, aiming for a quick recovery and anticipating a future match with Stipe Miocic. Physical therapy will follow the surgery, and Jones remains committed despite the setback. He expressed gratitude for the prayers and support and apologized to fans for any inconvenience.
“It’ll be surgery and physical therapy for me for the next several months. But I’m committed and my head is high,” Jones said on his Instagram, expressing eagerness for recovery. Moreover, he said, “Thank you to Stipe Miocic and his team for the work they have put in and also sorry to Stipe, as I said this comes with the territory.”
Former two-time heavyweight champ Stipe Miocic was aiming to reclaim the heavyweight title at UFC 295. He explained his reaction in his OnlyFans account. Miocic described Jones’ withdrawal as a “kick to the nuts.” However, Miocic remains determined to win back the title. Moreover, Miocic expressed concerns over his non-participation in the interim heavyweight title fight against Sergei Pavlovich.
UFC CEO Dana White said that giving Miocic an interim title shot might belittle his achievements in the heavyweight division and would be disrespectful. With Jones and Miocic both expressing interest in a future match, White is eager to make it happen in 2024.
Brendan Schaub advocates for stripping Jon Jones of title post-injury
In a recent YouTube video, Brendan Schaub provided a candid perspective on Jon Jones’ withdrawal from his title fight at UFC 295. He likened the latest UFC events to a “Real Housewives” episode, full of surprises. Schaub emphasized the seriousness of a complete muscle tear from the bone, drawing from his personal insights and experiences. Additionally, he speculated that the UFC’s projected recovery time of eight months might be underestimated and suggested that Jones could be sidelined for a year.
Schaub criticized the UFC’s decision to stage an interim title fight between Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich. He argued that the fight should be for a vacant title, considering the potential retirements of Jones and Stipe Miocic. Schaub also commented on the challenges fighters face when given short notice for significant bouts, saying, “You’re not getting the elite fighters giving their full effort.”
While skeptical about the interim title, Schaub is eager to watch the Aspinall vs. Pavlovich fight. He is especially optimistic about Aspinall’s chances if he had a full training camp Schaub concluded by advocating for the UFC to make the Aspinall vs. Pavlovich fight for the vacant heavyweight title.
Do you think Jon Jones will return in eight months to face Stipe Miocic? Comment below!
