Jon Jones has expressed his remorse to Stipe Miocic after withdrawing from their planned fight at UFC 295, as the heavyweight champion prepares for surgery.
Jones, a former two-time light-heavyweight champion, was set to defend the heavyweight belt against divisional great Miocic on 11 November, but sustained an injury in training this week.
“He was wrestling, and he tore the tendon that connects your pec to the bone… off the bone,” said UFC president Dana White, who added that Jones, 36, will be out for approximately eight months. White also announced that Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich will now compete for the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295.
In his first public statement since the injury, Jones expressed gratitude in an Instagram video. He thanked the UFC for arranging an appointment with acclaimed doctor, Dr. Neal ElAttrache, and sent appreciation to Miocic for his dedication. Jones also apologized to Miocic and his team, acknowledging that injuries are a common aspect of being an athlete.
Jones further expressed his gratitude towards his coaches, training partners, and all those who have supported him. Despite the setback, his goal is to undergo surgery and begin rehabilitation as soon as possible, looking forward to a future fight against Miocic.
“So, it’ll be surgery and physical therapy for me for the next several months, but I’m committed. I’m committed, and my head is high,” Jones stated. He expressed his apologies to the fans who were eagerly anticipating the event at Madison Square Garden and hoped that Aspinall and Sergei would put on an outstanding show. Jones even mentioned the possibility of attending the event as a spectator.
Jones’s victory in March, when he submitted Ciryl Gane in Round 1, established him as the heavyweight champion. Many fans had expected him to retire after fighting Miocic. Miocic, at 41, has not competed since losing the heavyweight title to Francis Ngannou in March 2020.
The former co-main event of UFC 295, featuring Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka, has been elevated to the main event, with the vacant title at 205lbs on the line.
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Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.
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