'It would be for a lot more money': Miocic, 44 and retired, opens the door to fighting 'anyone'
For many the greatest heavyweight ever, he retired after losing to Jon Jones. Two years later, he's putting a price on his comeback… and doesn't care who the opponent is.
By Equipo La Jaula Props · · 1 min read
Photos: Arturo Pardavila III, CC BY 2.0 (via Wikimedia Commons, cropped)
Stipe Miocic retired in November 2024, in the same UFC 309 cage at Madison Square Garden, after Jon Jones stopped him in the third round. Almost two years later, at 44, he has made clear what would bring him back.
What he said
In an interview with talkSPORT, asked whether anything could bring him out of retirement, he was direct: "Yeah, a lot more money." He added that if a lot of money were involved, he would definitely do it. Against whom? He'd "probably fight anyone". According to the former champion, the opponent never mattered much to him and he has no 'dream fight'.
Not the first time he's talked money
In another recent interview, Miocic praised Tom Aspinall for vacating the heavyweight title over his eye injuries, and took a shot at the promotion: "The UFC's never happy with anyone unless they're making them a ton of money."
A heavyweight legend
- He was a two-time UFC heavyweight champion and holds the record for consecutive heavyweight title defenses.
- His trilogy with Daniel Cormier is one of the most memorable rivalries in heavyweight history.
- Throughout his career he combined MMA with his job as a firefighter in Ohio.
- His last fight was the loss to Jon Jones at UFC 309. He announced his retirement that same night.
His UFC 334 pick
Miocic also talked about the title that was once his. For Gane vs. Hokit on November 14, again at Madison Square Garden, he's backing the champion: "He's seasoned, he's been there, and he's very smart at what he does." He says Hokit is tough and improving every fight, but isn't yet at the level to beat Aspinall.
Frequently asked questions
Is Stipe Miocic returning to the UFC?
Nothing has been announced. Miocic told talkSPORT he'd return for "a lot more money" and would fight anyone.
How old is Stipe Miocic?
44. He turned 44 in August 2026.
What was Miocic's last fight?
He lost to Jon Jones by third-round TKO at UFC 309 in November 2024 at Madison Square Garden. He announced his retirement that night.
Who would Miocic fight?
He said he'd "probably fight anyone": the opponent never mattered much to him and he has no dream fight.
Who wins Gane vs. Hokit according to Miocic?
Gane. He says he's experienced and very smart at what he does, although he believes Hokit improves every fight.
