Earlier this week Jon Jones revealed he’s now targeting UFC 306 in November for his next heavyweight title defense, and now the man he’ll go up against, Stipe Miocic has emerged to give a rare interview about the long-awaited showdown.
“Everyone thinks he’s going to beat my ass,” Miocic told CBS Sports with regarding to the Jones fight. “I don’t like being told that. I like shutting people up. He’s beatable. I know he is. Anyone is beatable and I will be the first to do this.
“I am very competitive and will never lose it. It’s in my DNA. I love what I do and have the best coaches in the world to prepare me whenever the fight comes up.”
Miocic then went on to break down the fight in more detail.
“I think styles make match-ups. I think I have a style that doesn’t match well with his style. If the shoe’s on the other foot, it could be me as well. He does a lot of good things. He’s good with his distance, his leg kicks and on the ground. I’m good at making it a fight.
“I’m technical but I can also make it into the brawl and make him feel really uncomfortable as does he. I think it depends on who does what they like. Unfortunately, I don’t like being told what to do so I’m going to do what I want to.”
The 41-year-old Miocic also gave his thoughts on current interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall’s frustration at having been overlooked for a a title shot in favor of him, despite being the No.1 ranked contender and having fought five times since Miocic last set foot in the Octagon.
“I get it,” Miocic acknowledged. “I’d feel the same way but I’m not taking anything away from him. The UFC can do what they want. It is what it is. There’s only one guy I want to fight, it’s Jon Jones. But at the same time, the UFC can pick who they want.
“What am I supposed to do? I’m not holding up the division like everyone says. I don’t care. Do what you want and stop crying. I’m not saying he’s crying. I’m just saying like fans and stuff like that.”
Watch Miocic’s full interview below.
