Jon Jones can be more than satisfied with his career if next week’s showdown with Stipe Miocic proves to be his final fight, according to his coach Brandon Gibson.
Jones is set to return to the cage for just the second time in almost five years at this month’s UFC 309 card inside New York City’s Madison Square Garden in a bout heavily rumoured to be both his and Miocic’s final fight of their respective careers. And if indeed Jones does opt to walk into the sunset following the fight, Gibson says that his fighter’s legacy in the sport is assured — even if interim champion Tom Aspinall is waiting in the wings hopeful of a bout with the winner.
Whenever Jon’s ready [to step away], I’m right there with him,” Gibson said in an interview with MMA Fighting. “I’m approaching this one like it’s our last go, it’s our last rodeo.”
Jones’ status is the sport is without question. The former longtime light heavyweight champion and current heavyweight champion has not yet tasted legitimate defeat in his 29-fight career, with the one black mark on his ledger a highly controversial disqualification against Matt Hamill almost 15 years ago.
And if this does prove to be Jones final fight, it won’t be because his skills are deteriorating says Gibson.
“I think physically, mentally, he could go in there and have five or six more great performances,” he said.
“There’s nothing left for Jon to prove. I think he really wants this fight with Stipe. I think this fight will help solidify Jon’s status as that great heavyweight champion but it’s not something we talk about every night at the gym. We’re definitely all eyes on November 16th But each time I go to a practice, I’m approaching it as this is my last camp. I’m giving it my all.
“If we get one more after this, if we get two more, that would be a great blessing. I’m also ready to see Jon hang it up. Put the belt up. I’d prefer them to walk away obviously earlier than later. Out of all the fighters, Jon deserves to walk away any time he wants. I’m always going to support those guys.”
