Following Stipe Miocic’s shocking loss to Jon Jones at UFC 309, former UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier couldn’t help but offer some honest reflection on his rival’s future. Cormier, who has had a storied rivalry with Miocic and has shared the Octagon with him on two occasions, was forced to face the bitter truth about Miocic’s career following the loss to Jones, who was crowned heavyweight champion.
The fight between Miocic and Jon Jones at UFC 309 was one of the most anticipated matchups of the year, not only because of the skills of the two fighters, but also because of the impact it would have on heavyweight history. Jones, who had previously been dominant in the light heavyweight division, moved up to heavyweight in search of a new challenge and, after an impressive fight, defeated Miocic by unanimous decision in what many considered a display of his class and versatility.
Miocic, who had been considered the best heavyweight in UFC history up to that point, was unable to find an effective answer to Jones’ attacks and suffered his second consecutive decision loss. Although Miocic showed his heart and determination during the fight, Jones was superior in almost every aspect, leaving many wondering about Miocic’s future in the division.
In a post-fight interview, Daniel Cormier, who had also had two fights with Miocic, did not hesitate to speak about his former rival’s situation. Although Cormier has always had respect for Miocic as a fighter, the loss to Jones made him reconsider Miocic’s UFC career.
“It’s a shame, because Stipe is one of the best we’ve seen at heavyweight, but it seems to me that his prime has passed. Jon Jones is a completely different talent. And sometimes, the great legends of the sport are affected by those types of fighters, fighters who have such a high level of skill and versatility,” Cormier stated.
Cormier not only highlighted Jones’ superiority in the Octagon, but also hinted that Miocic could be facing the inevitable downfall of his career like many other great champions in combat sports. “Everyone has a limit, even the greats,” Cormier added, underlining that time and constant challenges in the Octagon can make the greatest fighters reach the end of their road.
Despite the loss, Stipe Miocic’s legacy remains one of the most impressive in UFC history. With three successful heavyweight title defenses and notable wins over fighters like Daniel Cormier, Francis Ngannou, and Junior dos Santos, Miocic has earned the respect of the MMA community. However, the loss to Jones could be a sign that Miocic’s reign in the UFC is coming to an end.
At 41, Miocic is not a young fighter and his time at the top of the division could be limited. Cormier, who also experienced a career-ending fight in his fight against Stipe Miocic, understands that retirement can be a sensitive topic for fighters who have had a long and successful journey, but also noted that it is important to recognize the signs of wear and tear.
“The hardest thing for a fighter is to accept that you are no longer the best. I’ve lived it, I know it firsthand. But at some point, Stipe is going to have to consider whether he wants to keep fighting or if his legacy is already secured. And if he does, it has to be with the right mindset, with the understanding that Jon Jones is a fighter on another level,” Cormier said.
Cormier also reflected on the physical toll fighters face as they age and how it can affect their performance in the Octagon. “The body takes a hit, and so does the mind. After years of being at the top, the hunger, desire and stamina start to wane, and that’s something you have to deal with,” he concluded.
Following the loss to Jones, many are wondering what the future holds for Stipe Miocic. Should he retire and enjoy his legacy as one of the best of all time? Or does he have one more fight in him to prove he’s still competitive at the highest level?
The truth is that Miocic has proven over the years to be a tireless competitor and a worthy champion, but the showdown with Jon Jones has highlighted that the heavyweight has a monumental challenge ahead. Cormier has been clear in his statements, noting that Miocic’s career may be nearing its end, but he has also made it clear that the Croatian’s legacy will never be overshadowed by a loss.
Daniel Cormier’s words about Stipe Miocic after his loss to Jon Jones not only reflect the respect he has for his rival, but also a hard truth that many fighters must face at some point in their career: the inevitability of the passage of time. Miocic has been a legendary figure in the UFC, but like all the greats, the end of his career seems closer than ever.
