UFC boss Dana White has recently faced a wave of criticism regarding the highly anticipated heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, scheduled for November 2024.
Despite mixed reactions from fans and analysts, White remains steadfast in his for the matchup, emphasising its significance in the sport.
The bout was initially set for earlier this year but was postponed after Jones suffered a torn pectoral muscle.
This injury led to speculation about the fight’s relevance, especially with the emergence of interim champion Tom Aspinall, who has been vocal about wanting a title shot.
Critics argue that Miocic, at 42 years old and having not fought in over three years, may not be the ideal contender for Jones, who is considered one of the greatest fighters in MMA history.
In a recent media briefing, White addressed the backlash head-on. He questioned whether it would be fair to dismiss Miocic.
“Should I just shit on Stipe because Jon got hurt and not make the fight that he was already supposed to fight?” White said.
His comments reflect a commitment to honouring Miocic’s legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights ever, despite the criticisms surrounding his inactivity and recent performance.
White further elaborated that pulling the fight from Miocic would be disrespectful, especially given his status in the sport.
He argued that if he were to deny Miocic the opportunity, it would contradict the respect owed to a fighter of his caliber.
“If I did that, you guys would be like, ‘Oh, you f***ing disrespected the greatest heavyweight ever!’” White said.
Looking ahead, White has indicated that the winner of the Jones vs. Miocic fight will likely face Aspinall, who is eager to unify the heavyweight title.
This potential matchup adds another layer of intrigue to the fight, as it could set the stage for a new chapter in the heavyweight division.
As the MMA community awaits this monumental clash, the anticipation continues to build, with both fighters aiming to solidify their legacies in the sport.
