Former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic says that reports he is injured are ‘fake news.’
Miocic, who celebrated his 42nd birthday earlier this week, remains in line to be the next challenger to Jon Jones’ world championship in a bout speculated to take place in the UFC’s annual trip to New York City in November. However the fight, which has been delayed for almost a year as Jones recovers from a pectoral injury, has drawn the ire of some fans — as well as interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall who believes he is the rightful challenger to Jones’ throne.
And speaking on his YouTube channel this week, Aspinall stated that he heard whispers that Miocic too might have sustained an injury which may threaten the proposed clash with Jones in a few months’ time.
“I’m hearing rumors that Stipe is potentially injured,” Aspinall stated. “This is stuff I’m hearing from inner circles. Stipe, I believe his birthday was yesterday, actually, he’s 42 years old. The guy is gonna be injury prone. Jon Jones, million miles on the clock, he’s gonna be injury prone.
“Me, I’m ready to go, lad. I’m not even in my prime yet. I’m hungry for it. I’m not sure these two guys are, but I am. I’ll fight either of them for the undisputed title on any notice. I’m ready.”
— Stipe Miocic (@stipemiocic) August 23, 2024
However, apparently in response to Aspinall’s claims Miocic released message to social media stating that the reports of an injury were “fake news.”
Miocic, who holds the record for the most successful title defences in UFC history, has not competed since a March 2021 knockout defeat to Francis Ngannou — with his most recent win in the cage (a decision win against Daniel Cormier) coming more than four years ago in August 2020.
