Jones accuses Miocic of dodging him: 'Either you believe in yourself or you don't'
UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones is frustrated with the lack of progress on a proposed fight with title challenger Stipe Miocic.
"Bones" called out the former two-time champion on Twitter amid speculation that the two will fight each other this summer. The champion isn't confident that Miocic will commit to a bout.
Yo @stipemiocic only you the UFC and I know the truth, you dodged me all of 2022 - July, September & December.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) March 16, 2023
Now I’m hearing rumors that we may not be fighting this July.
Jones pleaded with Miocic to make up his mind.
Bro it’s simple, either you believe in yourself or you don’t. Either you want this challenge or you don’t. Stop wasting everyone’s time.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) March 16, 2023
However, Miocic didn't take long to respond, suggesting the two will meet on July 8.
See you in July. pic.twitter.com/lH7ZzemPCH
— Stipe Miocic (@stipemiocic) March 16, 2023
Jones, 35, returned to the Octagon earlier in March for the first time in three years. He submitted Ciryl Gane with a guillotine choke in the first round to capture the vacant heavyweight title at UFC 285.
Miocic, 40, was cageside for Jones' victory and subsequent call-out. The Ohio native has not fought since losing the belt via KO to Francis Ngannou at UFC 260 in March 2021.
UFC president Dana White said Jones' first title defense in the weight class would be against Miocic. A date for the potential fight hasn't been set, but the UFC 290 card in July was previously speculated to be a target event. Miocic expressed interest in a pay-per-view matchup during International Fight Week, which runs July 3-9.
Jones, who's considered one of the greatest fighters to ever enter the Octagon, hasn't committed to fighting beyond his next bout despite signing a new eight-fight deal ahead of his return earlier this month.