Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic is one of the most highly anticipated matchups in the heavyweight division right now. However, it is also an equally controversial setup, given Miocic is 42 years old and the last time he fought was in 2021. Here is former UFC star, Demetrious Johnson‘s take on it.
Demetrious Johnson recently sat down for a conversation with former UFC light-heavyweight champion Rampage Jackson. During their discussion on the Jaxxon podcast, Jackson asked ‘Mighty Mouse’ how he would train for Jon Jones if he was in Stipe Miocic’s position.
When I look at Stipe, he hasn’t fought in four years. The last time he fought, he got knocked out… It’s hard, being away from the fight game for four years…it’s going to be very very hard.
Demetrious Johnson on the Jaxxon Podcast
However, Demetrious Johnson further elaborated on why the matchup is significant beyond just being a championship bout. He believes that the fight would be highly marketable even without a title on the line due to both fighters’ legendary status in mixed martial arts. Jones is considered by many as the greatest fighter in MMA history and Miocic holds the record for most heavyweight title defenses.
Additionally, Johnson expressed his personal preference for Jones to face a rising star like Tom Aspinall, but he respected Jones’ decision to fight Miocic. The interim champion has been pushing for a title fight forever now and UFC CEO, Dana White has stated that he is next in line to take on the winner of this “legendary” matchup.
There are even rumors that Aspinall will be the backup fighter for that bout. This would make his chances of getting a title fight next even more certain. However, Aspinall still taunts Jones any chance he gets. Recently, this got to Jones as he lashed out with colorful words on Instagram.
Demetrious Johnson never fell in love with MMA
Demetrious Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters ever. He officially announced his retirement at the recent ONE 168 event in Denver. Johnson holds numerous records, including the most title defenses in UFC flyweight history. His career spanned 18 years. During this, he became the first fighter to win titles in both the UFC and ONE Championship.
Demetrious Johnson is officially retired from MMA (Image via X)However, interestingly, Johnson says he never felt consumed by MMA. While many MMA fighters live their life as fighters, Johnson supposedly was able to detach himself. This allowed him to wholeheartedly devote his time to his family. He talked about it during his appearance on the Jaxxon podcast.
Ever since I fought in mixed martial arts, I win my fight, I would go home and leave that life behind… Matt Brown said something about it’s hard for Tony Ferguson to leave the sport. He was like, ‘it’s a drug’. I never fell in love with that drug.
Demetrious Johnson continued
In his emotional retirement speech, Johnson thanked his family and fans, expressing gratitude for the opportunities MMA provided him. While stepping away from MMA, he plans to stay active in the martial arts world, particularly Brazilian jiu-jitsu. ‘Mighty Mouse’ has already been competing in BJJ ever since he stepped back from MMA.
!
