Looking at Jon Jones against Stipe Miocic (Possibly)

Following that was another statement saying that there was a verbal agreement to fight Miocic. Now keep in mind that pen and paper hasn’t been put in place for the match… yet. However, Jones has stated a verbal agreement with Miocic is in place.

Initially, both fighters were supposed to fight at UFC 295. However, the UFC Heavyweight Champion pulled out to a pectoral muscle tear. But fans will possibly have a chance to see the fight happen in the future. A couple of questions are looming about the match, though.

Will Jon Jones have ring rust?

Jon Jones has a lot on his plate in the future. The former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion has rumors swirling around his potential mega-fight with Alex Pereira. Now, he has his return fight against Miocic ready to go *verbally*.

However, there’s one small problem: The Albuquerque native has had one fight since February 9, 2020. He took down Ciryl Gane in his last fight on March 4, 2023, via guillotine choke. That was before he tore his pectoral tendon in training, which stopped the Jones-Miocic match.

Ring rust will be a small factor in the fight. Being shelved from his pectoral tear might hinder his ability to deliver any takedowns and strikes. In turn, it could give Miocic a massive advantage, leading the Cleveland native to victory.

Is Miocic vs. Jones worth watching?

There’s no doubt that Jon Jones’s return is newsworthy. He’s one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters, if not, the greatest. However, fighting a 41-year-old heavyweight at this time isn’t the most appealing idea. That’s especially true with that guy, Alex Pereira, waiting in the wings.

In fact, the Pereira stuff could be a distraction in the fight. Miocic is no slouch, taking down incredible fighters like Daniel Cormier (twice) and Francis Ngannou. Therefore, if Jones loses sight of the fight and the match, will anybody notice?

Granted, that’s a notable plus for the former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion in this circumstance. If the Pereira-Jones mega-fight does go through, people will be drawn to that fight. “Poatan” is an entertaining fighter, delivering shocking moments and athleticism to UFC fans everywhere.

Overall, Jones-Miocic should be an entertaining fight to watch. It features two of the UFC’s best fighters, with both superstars carrying a pedigree. However, people will be drawn to one of the best fighters the sport has to offer. If this fight happens, it could provide a huge gate for the UFC.