Stipe Miocic, one of the UFC’s most respected heavyweights, recently opened up about the missed opportunity for a third showdown with Francis Ngannou. The two fighters, who each claimed victory in their previous encounters, never got the chance to settle the score in a trilogy fight. For Miocic, it’s been a mix of disappointment and acceptance.
Miocic and Ngannou first clashed on January 20, 2018, in a highly anticipated bout. Ngannou, known as “The Predator,” was quickly rising through the ranks, demolishing every opponent in his path. Fans and experts alike saw Ngannou as a near-unstoppable force, expecting him to overwhelm Miocic with his power.
Stipe Miocic Explains Why a Trilogy Fight with Francis Ngannou Didn’t Materialize
But Miocic had other plans. Relying on his experience and skillful wrestling, he controlled Ngannou throughout the fight, ultimately winning by unanimous decision. This victory solidified Miocic’s place as one of the greats and demonstrated his ability to handle even the fiercest competition.
Their paths crossed again three years later, but things had changed. Ngannou had worked hard on his grappling, transforming into a more well-rounded fighter. Meanwhile, Miocic, though still formidable, was moving past his prime. In this rematch, Ngannou delivered a stunning knockout, claiming the heavyweight title and leaving Miocic longing for redemption.
After that loss, Miocic was determined to get another shot at Ngannou, seeking a “rubber match” to determine the definitive winner. However, despite his hopes, the opportunity never materialized. Ciryl Gane was chosen as Ngannou’s next opponent instead, leaving Miocic without the chance to avenge his loss.
In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Miocic shared his thoughts on why the trilogy never happened.
Stipe Miocic Frustrated He Didn’t Get Trilogy with Francis Ngannou
“I was trying to get the rubber match. It didn’t happen, unfortunately,” Miocic explained.
Miocic acknowledged that the UFC’s matchmaking decisions are beyond his control, saying:
“Listen, I’m a fighter; I don’t work for the UFC, internally and figure out their match-making. But, it’s what they wanted to do, and that’s what they did.”
When asked if he felt disappointed about not getting a third fight with Ngannou, Miocic admitted:
“Yeah, of course, because I wanted the rubber match. But also, I understand he’s doing better for himself and his family. I’m not mad at him; he’s doing great.”
Over it
Miocic has come to terms with the missed opportunity, even though he would have loved to step into the cage with Ngannou one last time.
“Yeah, I’m ok with letting it go. I get it. As much as I would love to fight him, I wish him nothing but the best. It is what it is. We’re 1-1. He got the last one, unfortunately.”
Although Miocic missed his chance to even the score with Ngannou, he now has another massive fight on the horizon. On November 16, Miocic will face Jon Jones at UFC 309, taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York. This matchup with Jones, a legend in his own right, is a unique chance for Miocic to regain the heavyweight title and further cement his legacy.
Some fans and analysts believe that, at this stage of his career, Miocic might face an uphill battle against Jones. However, one prominent figure in the MMA world has pointed out an area where Miocic may hold an advantage over Jones.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
