Fans go crazy as Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic might happen at UFC 290

The new UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones was anticipated to defend his title against the previous division champion Stipe Miocic atop the UFC 290 pay-per-view (PPV) event this July in Las Vegas, even tempting fans with a trash-talking promo from both Jones and Miocic.

Jon Jones (L) and Stipe Miocic (R) in a file photo
By Blesson Daniel | Mar 17, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

According to Jones, Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic at UFC 290 may not be a certainty. Jones called out Miocic on Thursday, accusing him of dodging a bout in 2022 and citing “rumors” that the ex-champ may not be available for the International bout Week pay-per-view.

It looks like Jones won’t stop at anything tweeting another shot at Miocic saying, “Bro it’s simple, either you believe in yourself or you don’t. Either you want this challenge or you don’t. Stop wasting everyone’s time.”

A source close to Miocic, who requested anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly on the matter, informed MMA Fighting that the former heavyweight champion is “100 percent in” for a battle with Jones on July 8. Miocic has consistently stated that a summer date would be perfect for him to fight the new champ, who promptly submitted Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 to reclaim the title after a three-year absence.

Not long after Stipe replied with this tweet.

Jones went after Miocic both before and after he won the title. In his press conference interview, he mocked the former champ, claiming Miocic should take time off from his day job as a fireman to prepare for their fight. In response, Miocic dismissed the remarks and stated that he would do his talking in the octagon.

Miocic has been sidelined since March 2021, when he was knocked out by now-former champ Francis Ngannou. He now owns the record for the most straight heavyweight championship defenses with three, making him an appealing target for Jones, widely regarded as the best-ever light heavyweight and pound-for-pound favorite.

READ MORE: Twitter erupts as Jon Jones cements himself as the ultimate MMA GOAT

Fans react as Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic may happen sooner than expected

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