Stipe Miocic, a name synonymous with excellence in the UFC heavyweight division, has made a surprising declaration about who he considers the “Baddest Man on the Planet.” Following his retirement after a tough loss to Jon Jones at UFC 309, the former two-time heavyweight champion has chosen Francis Ngannou as his top pick. This choice may raise eyebrows given the intense rivalry and the split of their past title bouts. Miocic’s admiration for Ngannou, particularly in light of his recent boxing success, highlights the evolving narrative in MMA, where fighters often venture beyond their primary disciplines.
Regarded by many as the greatest heavyweight fighter in UFC history, Miocic holds the record for the most title defenses in the heavyweight category. His decorated career included successful bouts against elite opponents like Alistair Overeem and Junior Dos Santos, showcasing not only his grappling skills but also his striking prowess. By endorsing Ngannou, Miocic demonstrates an understanding of the sport that transcends the typical competitive spirit often seen in athletes. His perspective may stem from recognizing the broader landscape of combat sports, where cross-discipline proficiency increasingly defines success.
Despite the anticipation surrounding a potential clash between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou, this matchup has yet to come to fruition. UFC CEO Dana White remains optimistic about the future, particularly in hopes of unifying the heavyweight championship with the interim titleholder, Tom Aspinall. Miocic’s commentary on how Aspinall should approach a fight with Jones underscores his strategic mindset. His tongue-in-cheek advice, “Don’t do what I did,” illustrates his understanding of the psychological warfare that comes with facing a formidable opponent like Jones.
In discussing Tom Aspinall, Miocic offered encouraging words while emphasizing the importance of remaining composed. He pointed out Aspinall’s strengths — size, striking ability, and agility, traits that could serve him well against Jones. This advice reflects the wisdom gained from Miocic’s experiences, both good and bad, suggesting that a fighter’s mental state can carry as much weight as their physical attributes.
As the landscape of heavyweight MMA continues to shift, Miocic’s insights serve as a reminder that competition is as much about respect as it is about rivalry. His recognition of Ngannou as the current dominant force underscores the dynamic nature of the sport. With new contenders like Aspinall rising through the ranks, the heavyweight division is poised for an exciting future filled with electrifying matchups and shifting allegiances. With Miocic’s guidance and perspective, both upcoming fighters and fans can anticipate a thrilling evolution in the world of mixed martial arts.