, once celebrated as one of the greatest heavyweights in , concluded his career in bittersweet fashion after a devastating loss to at . A thunderous spinning back kick from in the third round marked the end of storied run in the octagon. Brendan Schaub: Stipe Miocic heart wasn't in it The fight's result wasn't unexpected, with Jones entering as a heavy favorite.
However, the abruptness of Miocic's retirement announcement caught fans off guard. Post-fight, Miocic's words were brief but revealing: His candidness left fans and analysts reflecting on his journey, including former UFC fighter , who speculated that Miocic's heart wasn't in the fight long before stepping into the cage. remarked on his podcast.
added that seemed relieved to leave the sport, saying, Miocic made history in UFC Despite this somber farewell, legacy remains untarnished. A two-time , he was the first fighter in the division's history to successfully defend the belt three consecutive times. From his trilogy with to his victories over legends like Fabricio Werdum and Alistair Overeem, Miocic's career is packed with highlights.
His 2018 win against Francis Ngannou also solidified his status as one of the most well-rounded heavyweights of all time. Off the octagon, Miocic's clashes with President added complexity to his career. From disputes over pay to feeling undervalued as a champion, Miocic's relationship with the brass mirrored that of Schaub's own conflicts after retirement.
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