For UFC fans, the wait is almost over. Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic are finally set to meet in the octagon at UFC 309 on November 16, 2024, in Madison Square Garden. UFC President Dana White recently confirmed the news, bringing relief to many who have been eagerly waiting for this fight.
This match has been years in the making and holds a lot of importance for both fighters. Jon Jones is one of the greatest MMA fighters ever, and Stipe Miocic is a former heavyweight champion. The stakes are incredibly high, and this fight could mark the end of one or both of their careers.
The Long Wait for UFC 309
The journey to this fight has been long and filled with delays. Jon Jones won the heavyweight title in March 2023 after defeating Ciryl Gane. He quickly called out Stipe Miocic for his first title defense, and the fight was scheduled for November 2023 at UFC 295. However, an injury to Jones delayed the fight. He tore a muscle in his chest during training and needed surgery.
Now, almost a year later, both fighters are finally ready to step into the octagon. However, it’s important to note that neither fighter has been very active in recent years. Jones has only fought once in the past four years, and Miocic has also been relatively inactive. At 37 years old, Jones still has the potential to dominate the division, while Miocic, now 42, is nearing the end of his career.
Two MMA Legends Collide
Dana White has emphasized that this fight isn’t just about the heavyweight title; it’s about two of the best fighters in UFC history facing off. Jon Jones, often called the best MMA fighter of all time, is fighting against Stipe Miocic, who many consider the best UFC heavyweight of all time.
For Miocic, this fight is a chance to win back the title he lost in 2021. However, there is a lot of talk that this could be Miocic’s last fight. If Miocic wins, he could retire on top, but if he loses, retirement might come sooner than expected.
What Happens After UFC 309?
While the focus is on Jones vs. Miocic, another fighter is waiting in the wings: Tom Aspinall. Aspinall, the interim UFC heavyweight champion, has quickly risen through the rankings and now finds himself in the top contender spot.
Aspinall has made it clear that he wants to fight Jon Jones. However, Dana White has stayed firm in his decision to go forward with the Jones-Miocic fight, even though Aspinall has criticized it. If Jones wins, it’s likely that Aspinall will be next in line for a shot at the title. According to White, Jones won’t back down from a fight with Aspinall.
Aspinall believes he deserves a shot at the belt more than Miocic, who is now 42 years old. If Jones defeats Miocic, we could see Jones face Aspinall, setting up one of the most exciting heavyweight matchups in UFC history.
Other Fights to Watch at UFC 309
While Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic is the main event, UFC 309 has other exciting fights in store. One of those is the bout between Michael Chandler and Charles Oliveira. Chandler, who hasn’t fought since November 2022, has been waiting a long time for his next fight. He had hoped to fight Conor McGregor, but now he’ll face Oliveira, a former UFC lightweight champion.
Just like the Jones-Miocic fight, Chandler’s return to the octagon has been delayed for various reasons, but fans are eager to see how he performs after such a long break.
Conclusion
The wait for Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic is almost over, and UFC 309 is shaping up to be an event that fans won’t want to miss. Both fighters are legends in the sport, and this match will have a big impact on their legacies. If Jones wins, he could face Tom Aspinall next, setting up an exciting future for the UFC heavyweight division. No matter the outcome, UFC 309 is sure to be a night to remember.
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FAQs
Is this Jon Jones’ first heavyweight title defense?
Yes, this will be Jon Jones’ first defense of the heavyweight title, which he won in March 2023.
Will Stipe Miocic retire after UFC 309?
There’s a lot of talk about Miocic possibly retiring after this fight, but nothing is confirmed yet.
What happens if Jon Jones wins at UFC 309?
If Jones wins, he could face Tom Aspinall, the interim champion, in his next fight.
Why was the Jones-Miocic fight delayed?
The fight was delayed because Jon Jones tore a muscle in his chest during training and needed surgery.
Who else is fighting at UFC 309?
In addition to Jones vs. Miocic, Michael Chandler will fight Charles Oliveira at UFC 309.
How old are Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic?
Jon Jones is 37 years old, and Stipe Miocic is 42.
