Earlier this year, Jon Jones ended his three-year retirement to get a shot at the heavyweight title. After securing the gold strap, Jones is preparing to safeguard his 265-lb title against Stipe Miocic in November.
Leading up to Jon’s highly awaited title defense, Daniel Cormier offered insights into Jones’ legacy. The ex-two-division champ shared his perspective on whether Jones might retire following UFC 295.
Daniel Cormier weighs in on Jon Jones’ retirement speculation after Miocic clash
On an installment of the ESPN MMA program “DC & RC,” Cormier delved into Jon’s retirement prospects. As per the former champion in both light heavyweight and heavyweight classes, Jones is grappling with enticing fight offers that are challenging to turn down.
“I know that Jones said that the fight with Miocic could be his last. To be honest, I don’t really believe in it yet. The money at stake is too tempting, and he is still too young,” Cormier said.
In addition, Daniel highlighted another dimension of Jones’ potential retirement strategy. The UFC Hall of Famer suggested that Bones might entertain the idea of retiring solely in the event of a defeat against Miocic.
UFC Heavyweight Champ Jon Jones drops retirement hint
Jones is unquestionably a UFC icon, having secured titles in two distinct weight divisions, solidifying his legendary status in the sport. Nonetheless, the BJJ purple belt has indicated the prospect of retirement after his Madison Square Garden endeavor, hinting that Stipe Miocic could potentially become his final opponent inside the octagon.
Jones returned to the octagon in March, and following his victory, he shifted his focus to Miocic. Expressing interest in a showdown with the former two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion, Jones hinted that this bout could potentially serve as his farewell to MMA.
Miocic didn’t shy away from Jones’ challenge. The 40-year-old heavyweight kingpin responded to the call-out, expressing a strong desire to put an end to Jones’ reign as the heavyweight champion when they collide in UFC 295.
Being widely recognized as one of the heavyweight legends in UFC history, The Silencer acknowledges Jones’ prominence while remaining confident in his own abilities to overcome the challenge.
Jon Jones is set to defend his UFC heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 on November 11 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Dana White announced Friday. pic.twitter.com/4Pp8hKNEHI
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) July 7, 2023
Miocic’s last appearance in the octagon dates back to his loss against former champion Francis Ngannou in 2021. Considering all factors, the impending clash between Jones and Miocic is poised to be a momentous and highly anticipated event in the history of the UFC.
What’s your take on this upcoming duel? Don’t forget to let us know in the comments section.
