In the time since their canceled title clash last November, the division has seen an interim titleholder crowned in Tom Aspinall, who has even notched a successful defense in 2024 by getting the better of Curtis Blaydes.
While that’s left many calling for Jones to unify the title against the Brit, both he and the UFC have long remained firm on rebooking the Miocic matchup. “Bones” has been the subject of criticism for that, with plenty suggesting he’ll likely retire following the Nov. 16 event and avoid facing Aspinall.
The chances of that increased a few days ago when Jones told Clocked N’ Loaded that Miocic will more than likely mark his final opponent.
Cormier Pushes Back On Jones Retirement Before Facing Aspinall
“DC” acknowledged that there isn’t much left at heavyweight that’s worth Jones prolonging his career for. But what there is, however, is an interim champ in Aspinall, and his presence is enough for Cormier to see Jones’ potential retirement as leaving incomplete work behind.
“This is the fight that you want in Madison Square Garden, 1,000 percent,” Cormier said. “(But) hearing Jones say — or hearing the rumor that Jones said, ‘This is it for me,’ it sucks because I do believe that there is some work left to be done, with Aspinall mainly. I don’t think anyone else right now warrants him sticking around. We saw what he did to Ciryl Gane.
“The guy’s obviously doing well, probably just doesn’t want to fight anymore. So what happens, right? You walk away,” Cormier continued. “I believe that when push comes to shove, they might nudge him if he gets through Stipe. They nudge you, they nudge you, they nudge you, and then you end up getting more money and then you ultimately fight.”
It remains to be seen whether or not Jones will follow through with his frequent hints at retirement come fight night at MSG.
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