Jon Jones addresses ‘very sad situation’ of injury leading to UFC 295 withdrawal; apologizes to Stipe Miocic

UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones seems to be handling his recent injury well, despite it causing him to withdraw from a major title fight at Madison Square Garden.

Jones was preparing for a highly anticipated title bout against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 on November 11. However, an injury sustained during training camp has forced him to pull out. On Tuesday, UFC CEO Dana White revealed that Jones suffered a torn pectoral muscle.

Recently, Jones took to Instagram to address his injury and the circumstances surrounding his withdrawal from UFC 295. This was the first time he publicly spoke about the issue.

“Firstly, I want to thank everyone who has shown concern for my well-being,” Jones expressed. “Naturally, this is a disappointing situation and it upsets me. However, as an athlete, injuries are part of the journey. I’m grateful to the UFC for connecting me with one of the best doctors in the country, Dr. Neal ElAttrache. I would like to extend my thanks to Dr. Neal ElAttrache and his team in California for seeing me so promptly.”

Dr. ElAttrache is a renowned orthopedic surgeon who has treated numerous high-profile athletes in various sports. He recently performed surgery on former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill, who suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in July.

Jones went on to apologize to Miocic, who will also be absent from UFC 295 due to the creation of an interim title match between Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich. It appears that Jones, Miocic, and White all agree on rescheduling their anticipated fight for a later date when Jones has fully recovered.

“I would like to thank Stipe Miocic for his dedication and hard work,” Jones acknowledged. “To Stipe and his team, I am sorry. These setbacks are part of the sport. I am grateful to my coaches and training partners, all those who have supported me throughout. I cannot even say ‘to the fight’ anymore. Nevertheless, my intention is to undergo surgery tomorrow and return to training as soon as possible. Stipe and I will face each other at a later date, that is my plan.”

“For the next several months, I will be focused on surgery and physical therapy. I remain fully committed. My spirits are high. I want to thank everyone who has prayed for me. I love you all. And once again, I apologize to the fans. I know many of you made significant arrangements to attend the event at Madison Square Garden. Hopefully, Aspinall and Sergei will put on a spectacular show for you. I might even show up to watch. But rest assured, I am doing okay. Take care,” concluded Jones.

For more information on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 295.

Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie