Jon Jones ‘Disappointed But Patient’ For Stipe Miocic Fight, Hopeful For September

The rumored fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic won’t be happening.

At least not yet, Jones announced on Twitter Tuesday evening. Jones advisor Richard Schaefer previously told ESPN that the UFC offered Jones and Miocic a main event spot for the interim heavyweight title on July 2, but Miocic won’t be ready by then.

“Stipe is saying that he will be at his absolute peak in September. I’m disappointed but patient, I want the heavyweight goat at his absolute best. I’ll wait until September. No excuses,” Jones tweeted.

Stipe is saying that he will be at his absolute peak in September. I’m disappointed but patient, I want the heavyweight goat at his absolute best. I’ll wait until September. No excuses

— BONY (@JonnyBones) April 26, 2022

Jones has made it clear through social media that his time at light heavyweight is over. He believes becoming dominant in the heavyweight division is his fate, he previously said in a series of tweets.

Though Jones has been headlines for legal issues during his time away from the octagon, he’s assured his fans that he’s been preparing for his heavyweight debut.

“We just want to fight for the heavyweight title,” Schaefer said.

“Jon doesn’t give a s–t against who. As long as it’s for the title. He’s been waiting, he’s been training. He’s mentally and physically ready.”

Current UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is sidelined for about six more months following knee surgery and his progress on re-signing with the UFC is unclear.

UFC President Dana White previously said that if Ngannou is out from as long as predicted, the promotion would put together an interim fight for the meantime. White has also said he’s confident that he and Ngannou’s team can come to terms on a new contract.

Miocic lost his heavyweight crown to Ngannou in March 2021. Ever since, he has emphasized that he wants another shot at the title. That was the last time he fought.

Jones, meanwhile, hasn’t competed since retaining his light heavyweight title against Dominick Reyes in February 2020, which had a controversial outcome.

Schaefer told ESPN that Jones won’t wait any longer than September.