Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic set for long-awaited UFC heavyweight title clash at Madison Square Garden

A historic heavyweight showdown

After a prolonged delay, Stipe Miocic is set to face Jon Jones for the UFC heavyweight championship at UFC 309, hosted at Madison Square Garden. Miocic, seeking a third heavyweight title reign, looks to cement his legacy in a bout that MMA fans and analysts argue should have taken place much sooner.

Miocic’s future and his fire service commitment

At 42 years old, Miocic is not yet contemplating retirement, at least not outside the octagon. As a dedicated firefighter and paramedic in Ohio, Miocic insists his career in public service is far from over. “That’s a long time away,” he noted, emphasizing his commitment beyond fighting.

The road to the matchup

Originally planned for November of last year, the fight was postponed due to Jones suffering a tendon injury during training. UFC President Dana White dismissed the idea of an interim fight for Miocic, believing it would undermine his stature. Now, after more than three years since his last bout, Miocic (20-4) is prepared for his opportunity against Jones (27-1-0, 1 NC).

Chasing history

A victory for Miocic would place him alongside Randy Couture as one of only two fighters in UFC history with three title reigns in a single division. Having previously defeated names like Fabricio Werdum and Daniel Cormier, Miocic acknowledges the significance of this fight. “This one might be the most special,” he said. “It’s Jon Jones, and it’s at the Mecca of fighting.”

Cormier’s perspective on the matchup

Former heavyweight and light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, who has faced both Jones and Miocic, offered his insight. While refraining from picking a winner due to his current role as an ESPN commentator, Cormier highlighted Jones’ diverse skill set, exceptional cardio, and high fight IQ as his biggest advantages. “He’s so tough and well-rounded,” Cormier stated. Conversely, he praised Miocic for his hand speed, strength, and ability to adjust mid-fight, critical skills that could challenge Jones’ reach advantage.

Fighting styles and strategies

Cormier explained that Jones’ 84-inch reach might work against him in close-range exchanges. Miocic’s clinch work and powerful strikes could exploit this vulnerability. “When you get inside his range, he’s not as effective,” Cormier noted, pointing to Miocic’s strong physicality as a potential factor in the fight.

Extended layoffs for both fighters

Both athletes have been largely inactive in recent years. Jones returned to action in March 2023, securing a dominant victory over Ciryl Gane after a three-year hiatus. Miocic last competed in March 2021, when he lost the belt to Francis Ngannou. Despite the inactivity, Cormier likened Miocic to NFL legend Tom Brady, emphasizing his ability to perform at a high level even in his 40s.

Looking beyond the fight

Regardless of the outcome, the future of both fighters remains uncertain. Jones has hinted at potential retirement, while Miocic has teased a return to his firefighter duties soon after the fight. UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall looms as a possible next opponent for the victor. Cormier suggested that Miocic winning might prolong Jones’ career, as a loss could motivate him for a rematch.

As the MMA world eagerly anticipates this clash of titans, the stakes are high for both fighters, with legacies and history on the line.