UFC President Dana White anticipates that Francis Ngannou will make his first title defense against Derrick Lewis. Moreover, White reveals that Jon Jones could be facing Stipe Miocic next.
Previously, Francis Ngannou beat Stipe Miocic at UFC 260. Following a second-round KO/TKO, Ngannou became the new heavyweight champion. Since then a fight with either Jon Jones or Derrick Lewis has been on the cards.
In a recent interview with ESPN, White says, “We’ll see what’s next. I like that he’s ( Stipe) fired up and wants to fight again. Listen, we could do Jon and Stipe, too”. Naturally, the idea of one of the greatest heavyweights vs. one of the best ever in MMA has sent the community into a frenzy.
Jones has been patiently waiting for his shot at Ngannou. Whilst it seems that the UFC was not keen on giving him the “mega pay” he desires, they are willing to give him a chance to earn it. Additionally, Stipe Miocic has also shown interest in coming back to claim his title. As such, the idea of a potential bout for the No.1 Contender is very feasible.
Recently, Stipe and Jones have both been bulking up and adjusting to a new weight. In a way, both are at a very similar phase right now and a matchup would be the best way to decide the opponent for Ngannou’s second title defense.
Read More: I want to get back what’s mine! Heavyweight GOAT Stipe Miocic Seeks Vengeance on Francis Ngannou
Will Jon Jones fight Stipe Miocic?
Previously, Dana White and the UFC claimed that Jon Jones was not deserving of an immediate title shot. Following a controversial win over Dominick Reyes at UFC 247, Jones vacated his title and moved up to the heavyweight division. Since then, he’s been pining for a shot at Ngannou and the heavyweight title.
Daniel Cormier punches Jon Jones in their UFC light heavyweight championship bout during the UFC 214 event at Honda Center on July 29, 2017, in Anaheim, California. ( Credits: Getty Images)
In the meantime, Stipe Miocic has been working on his 250lbs shape, indicating that he could be coming back for a shot at Ngannou. After beating Ngannou the first time around, Stipe lost to him at UFC 260, claiming a smaller shape as his disadvantage. However, he will also have to do something noteworthy in order to warrant a trilogy fight with Ngannou.
Whilst Jon Jones is seen as the ‘MMA GOAT’, Stipe is seen as the ‘Heavyweight GOAT’. If a potential fight comes to fruition, it could be the dream come true of every MMA fan. Moreover, it would be the perfect prequel to the heavyweight title fight.
Read More: Jon Jones Vows to Break Francis Ngannou Down in Pursuit of Heavyweight Title Fight
