UFC 295 faced a significant setback when heavyweight champion Jon Jones withdrew from the fight against Stipe Miocic due to injury. Dana White then declared an interim title fight, excluding Miocic from the lineup. Later, White elaborated on the reasons behind Miocic’s exclusion. Let’s delve into the specifics.
Dana White Clarifies Stipe Miocic’s Absence from Interim Title Fight at UFC 295
Jones had to exit the event due to a torn pectoral tendon, as confirmed by Dana White on social media. White stated that Jones needs chest surgery, leading to a minimum eight-month recovery period. Consequently, Jones won’t be part of the UFC until mid-2024.
Consequently, the division will progress with an interim title match. Serghei Pavlovich vs Tom Aspinall was added to the UFC 295 lineup, with both heavyweights vying for the interim world heavyweight title. Following this fight announcement and the exclusion of Jones and Miocic, White clarified his decision to remove Miocic.
“You have the greatest heavyweight of all time versus the greatest mixed martial artist of all time. 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 said
White believed an interim title fight wasn’t fitting for Stipe Miocic, so he didn’t extend the offer to him. He also asserted that fans are keen on seeing a match between Jones and Miocic. The fight between Jones vs Miocic is not going to happen any time soon fans have to wait more for this bout.
READ ALSO: Here’s How Fans Get Free UFC 295 Tickets for Jones vs Miocic Despite Sky-High Prices
What are your thoughts on the UFC’s choice to arrange the interim title fight between Pavlovich and Aspinall? Do you believe Stipe Miocic should have been included in the event?
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