For those eagerly anticipating the showdown between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, the wait is finally over.
The highly anticipated UFC heavyweight title fight is set to take place at UFC 309 in Madison Square Garden on Nov. 16, according to Dana White in an interview with Complex. While White did not divulge details about what comes next, he hinted that Jones might face top contender Tom Aspinall if he emerges victorious.
The long-awaited matchup between Jones and Miocic has been a topic of discussion for a considerable amount of time, causing frustration among fans and critics alike.
Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic: A Second Chance
After claiming the vacant title by defeating Ciryl Gane in March 2023, Jones wasted no time in calling out Miocic. The initial fight announcement for UFC 295 in July fell through when Jones suffered a pectoral injury, leading to a lengthy delay before the rescheduled date.
Both Jones and Miocic have had limited appearances in the octagon in recent years, with age also becoming a factor as they are now in their late 30s and early 40s, respectively.
Meanwhile, Aspinall’s rise in the heavyweight division has created additional intrigue. Despite holding the interim belt, Aspinall was made to defend it against Curtis Blaydes instead of getting a shot at the champion. This decision has sparked a rivalry between Aspinall and Jones, adding another layer of complexity to the heavyweight landscape.
Despite facing criticism, White remains steadfast in his commitment to the Jones-Miocic matchup, emphasizing the clash of titans in what many consider a battle between two of the best in their respective divisions.
As fight fans gear up for UFC 309, which also features Michael Chandler taking on Charles Oliveira after a lengthy hiatus, the anticipation for the long-awaited showdown between Jones and Miocic continues to build.