The UFC’s much-anticipated milestone event, UFC 300, is in the works, and several exciting matchups have already been announced, including Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway and Zhilei Zhang vs. Yan Xiaonan. However, fans have been eagerly awaiting news of a major draw to join the lineup, as has been customary for historic events in the past.
One name that resonates with fans is the potential return of Jon Jones, the UFC heavyweight champion. Since his submission win over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in March, Jones has been on a hiatus due to a torn pec that required surgery, causing him to miss a title defense against Stipe Miocic.
While some fans may have hoped for a swift recovery, Jon Jones recently revealed that he was offered an opportunity to fight at UFC 300 in April. Despite not disclosing the opponent, speculation suggests it could have been Stipe Miocic. Regrettably, Jones had to decline the offer, acknowledging that he wouldn’t be adequately prepared for the bout.
In a recent interview, Jon Jones disclosed, “I was actually called and offered to fight at the event. The guys said they just wanted to give me the option. We both knew I wouldn’t be ready. My relationship with UFC is better now than it’s ever been.”
Jones’s mention of his improved relationship with the UFC is noteworthy, considering the release of private text messages earlier this month between Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta, where they referred to Jones with disparaging terms. Despite this, Jones seemed unfazed and responded to Daniel Cormier’s comments, defending himself against the criticisms.
As UFC 300 approaches, it’s now confirmed that Jon Jones won’t be part of the event. Dana White recently announced that other notable names, such as Ronda Rousey, Brock Lesnar, and Georges St-Pierre, will also be absent. The milestone event will have to rely on its existing pool of talent, leaving fans to speculate about the potential additions to the April lineup.
What are your thoughts on Jon Jones’s comments? Are you eagerly anticipating UFC 300, and who would you like to see added to the event in April?
