UFC legend Jon Jones has revealed that his proposed fight against Stipe Miocic is being targeted for September instead of July.
For over two years now fans have been waiting to see Jon Jones get back inside the Octagon. Itâs been a long time coming since his controversial win over Dominick Reyes in early 2020 but the moment has almost arrived for âBonesâ to make his long-awaited debut at heavyweight.
When he does so, heâs expected to take on former champion Stipe Miocic, with the popular opinion being that they will battle it out over the interim title with Francis Ngannou currently out through injury.
It seemed as if they were heading for a collision during International Fight Week in July but according to recent reports, Miocic wonât be ready in time to make that date.
In response to the news, Jones took to social media and confirmed that heâs now shooting for a September showdown with the 39-year-old.
âStipe is saying that he will be at his absolute peak in September. Iâm disappointed but patient, I want the heavyweight goat at his absolute best. Iâll wait until September. No excusesâ
âIt really does man, my coaches and their families were definitely excited for this fight. Iâd be lying if I said I wasnât disappointed todayâ
Miocicâs last fight came at UFC 260 where he was knocked out cold by âThe Predatorâ, losing his belt in the process.
When is Francis Ngannou coming back?
While he may have stated earlier this week that he does want to continue his mixed martial arts career, Francis Ngannouâs focus isnât exactly on the UFC right now.
His exploits over the weekend, which featured an appearance in the ring with Tyson Fury after âThe Gypsy Kingâ knocked out Dillian Whyte, have people talking about his potential transition over to boxing.
He still needs to heal up from the knee injuries that have been plaguing him for the last couple of years with his bout against Ciryl Gane serving as the final straw before he had to go in for surgery.
Beyond that, early-to-mid 2023 seems like the most reasonable estimate for his comeback.