One of Jon Jones' former opponents recently articulated his thoughts on the reigning UFC heavyweight champion's upcoming matchup against Stipe Miocic.
Jones is set to put his undisputed title on the line against former long-time champion Miocic in the main event of UFC 309, scheduled for November 16 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
This matchup has ignited a whirlwind of debate, with UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall repeatedly calling for a title unification bout. Despite these appeals, 'Bones' has remained firmly committed to facing Miocic. Jones' adamant stance has provoked discontent among many fans, who argue that he is stalling the division and deliberately avoiding a showdown with Aspinall.
The former UFC light heavyweight champion has frequently expressed that facing Miocic is his dream fight and the primary reason for his move up to the heavyweight division. Jones has also alluded to the idea that defeating a legend like Miocic would be the final crowning achievement in his already stellar career, suggesting that after adding such a victory to his record, he may hang up his gloves.
However, Vitor Belfort believes that a fight against Miocic brings a lot of risk.
Belfort Thinks Miocic Has The Upper Hand Against Jones At UFC 309
During a recent interview with Inside Fighting, 'The Phenom,' who lost to Jones at UFC 152 in September 2012, shared his insights on the headlining bout of UFC 309. Belfort asserted that this matchup poses more risks than rewards for "Bones", arguing that Jones would be tested to his limit against the 42-year-old veteran.
If I can give any advice to Jon Jones, it’s to not fight him [Aspinall] because there is nothing to gain from that fight for Jon Jones," Belfort said. "Jon Jones is going to have the greatest career. Let's say he beats Miocic, which I think is going to be very hard. I love Jon Jones, and I think he has an amazing career, but you know, a lot of people think he's bigger than Stipe Miocic. No, he's not bigger, he's not stronger, and his striking is not better than Stipe Miocic. Stipe Miocic is a great boxer; he can wrestle and he can grapple.
Belfort also suggested that Jones is doing the right thing in not fighting Aspinall, as he poses a significant threat to the champion.
Aspinall is a different beast. He's so young; I mean, he's the new generation—very dangerous, very explosive, very athletic. I don't think unless Jon Jones is going to make millions of dollars. But I mean, if I'm Jon Jones, I would ask, 'Why are you fighting him? If you win, cut it out, go retire, and be the best guy of all time.' I'm thinking he would be the Tom Brady of MMA.