Stipe Miocic, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion, believes that staying true to himself is the key to overcoming the enigma that is Jon Jones, the current titleholder. Miocic prioritizes his own strategy over Jones’ arsenal of reach, leg kicks, and unpredictable maneuvers, which have solidified his status as the MMA G.O.A.T.
In a recent appearance on the “Believe You Me” video podcast with Anthony Smith and Michael Bisping, Miocic emphasized his determination to dictate the fight’s course, rather than letting Jones control the narrative. He declared, “I’m going to do what I want. The minute I allow him to interfere with my game plan, I’ve already lost. However, by asserting myself and executing my strategy, I greatly increase my chances of victory.”
Acknowledging Jones’ renowned capabilities, Miocic acknowledged that the champ excels at implementing unorthodox tactics that often catch opponents off guard. In contrast, Miocic characterizes himself as a more straightforward fighter, relying on a basic one-two punch combination and kicks. Aware of the dangers Jones poses from any position, Miocic emphasized the importance of preparing for all eventualities.
When they collide at UFC 295 on November 11 at Madison Square Garden, Miocic aims to weigh between 245 and 250 pounds, fully prepared to grapple with the added bulk Jones acquired after moving up from the light heavyweight division. While critics have questioned Miocic’s ability to balance his firefighting paramedic career with his fighting pursuits, the former champion affirmed that nothing has changed.
“I am following my routine diligently,” he asserted. “I haven’t altered any aspect of my training. I can still work out at the station. It’s not solely sparring or pad work every day; it includes conditioning, weightlifting, and designated recovery days. Some people just don’t understand.”
Miocic also sought to enlighten MMA fans on the challenges involved in arranging fights like this one. Negotiations between Miocic and Jones spanned several months, with several moments suggesting that the matchup might not materialize. While Miocic refrained from revealing details about the behind-the-scenes discussions, he hinted at the difficulties encountered during the booking process. At one point, he even had to postpone the fight due to his demanding family schedule.
“People fail to grasp the complexities involved,” Miocic shared. “There’s more at stake than just two fighters wanting to face each other. The UFC has its own set of priorities, and sometimes things don’t align perfectly. It’s a business, and I understand that.”
Jones, aiming to defend his heavyweight title after capturing it in March with a swift victory over ex-interim champ Ciryl Gane, recently received the 2023 ESPY for Best MMA Fighter. While this accolade may impress others, Miocic remains unfazed, asserting that the outcome of their impending fight will drastically alter Jones’ trajectory.
“That’s nice for him,” Miocic commented on the award. “But unfortunately, a lot is going to change.”
When asked to predict the fight’s outcome, Miocic confidently stated that Jones won’t be able to control the match by resorting to his wrestling prowess.
“I will walk out of that cage with the belt wrapped around my waist—new champion, without a doubt,” he declared. “I will outperform him in every aspect of the game, relentlessly pursuing a finish.”
The full interview with Miocic can be found below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC 295
Q: What is the significance of UFC 295?
A: UFC 295 is a highly anticipated event featuring a title fight between Stipe Miocic and Jon Jones for the heavyweight championship.
Q: What is Stipe Miocic’s approach to facing Jon Jones?
A: Stipe Miocic plans to dictate the fight against Jon Jones by staying true to his own strategy and doing what he wants inside the Octagon.
Q: How does Stipe Miocic describe his fighting style compared to Jon Jones?
A: Stipe Miocic considers himself a more straightforward fighter, relying on basic combinations like one-two punches and kicks, while acknowledging Jon Jones’ ability to execute unpredictable techniques.
Q: What challenges did Stipe Miocic face in arranging the fight with Jon Jones?
A: Negotiations for the fight between Stipe Miocic and Jon Jones took several months and encountered difficulties, including a delay caused by Miocic’s busy family schedule.
Q: What is Stipe Miocic’s prediction for the fight against Jon Jones?
A: Stipe Miocic confidently predicts that he will emerge as the victor, outperforming Jon Jones in every aspect of the game and aiming for a finish.
Q: How does Stipe Miocic view Jon Jones’ recent accolades?
A: Stipe Miocic remains unfazed by Jon Jones’ recognition, such as the 2023 ESPY for Best MMA Fighter, stating that a lot is going to change after their fight.
Q: What weight is Stipe Miocic planning to compete at for UFC 295?
A: Stipe Miocic plans to weigh between 245 and 250 pounds for his heavyweight title fight against Jon Jones at UFC 295.
Q: How does Stipe Miocic balance his fighting career with his job as a firefighter paramedic?
A: Stipe Miocic asserts that he has not changed his routine and still manages to work out at the fire station while maintaining his training schedule as a professional fighter.
More about UFC 295
- UFC 295 Official Website
- Stipe Miocic’s UFC Profile
- Jon Jones’ UFC Profile
- UFC Heavyweight Championship
- Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Overview
- Stipe Miocic’s Instagram Profile
- Jon Jones’ Instagram Profile
4 comments
stipe is keeping it real, man! he’s not lettin jones call the shots, gonna dictate the fight himself. gonna be a banger at ufc 295!
as a jones fan, gotta admit stipe is a tough opponent. but jones is a beast, unpredictable and dangerous. gonna be a war in that octagon at ufc 295!
stipe miocic is def gunna show jones who’s boss at ufc 295! he’s got da right mindset and gonna do what he wants, no doubt about it!
negotiations for this fight sound intense, man! had no idea it took so long to make it happen. props to both fighters for sticking with it. can’t wait for ufc 295!