May 25, 2020 - Stipe Miocic and his team are currently negotiating his return to the octagon with the UFC.
Gol.hr reports that in an interview with MMA Fighting, Stipe Miocic confirmed his return to the octagon, despite constant rumors that he could retire due to an eye injury he suffered in the fight against Daniel Cormier. Stipe is determined to return to the octagon by the end of the year and doesn’t care much about what others think and say about him.
"There is no doubt that I will fight by the end of this year. That is 100 percent certain," Miocic said.
The coronavirus pandemic is currently holding back the UFC champion of Croatian roots from returning to training and preparing to defend another title. The state of Ohio where he lives is still in quarantine and training is not allowed. Despite this, many heavyweights complain that Stipe is holding back the heavyweight division and that he should soon fight or relinquish his championship belt.
"I don't know what people want from me. Everyone says I am holding up the division, but I don't know how? Everyone who can train normally, great for you, but I live in another state with different rules. My coach has closed the gym and there is no training as long as this lasts. That’s why everyone should shut up because they’re idiots," the UFC heavyweight champion said sharply.
Stipe also commented on the words of his rival Cormier, who suggested that he build a training center at home.
"I don't care what he thinks. I've never cared about that. Honestly, this guy is contradictory every now and then. In his opinion, I'm not a champion. Everyone now has something to say: 'Defend the title or leave it.' I don't care at all right now. Stop crying."
Stipe also confirmed that he is in talks with the UFC and that they are looking for an optimal date for him to return.
"I want to get back as soon as possible. I'm not trying to getaway. I want to fight. I'm going to fight five rounds for the title against a very good fighter and I want to be ready. We're talking to the UFC and looking for the best possible date to return to the octagon," Stipe said.
Recall, Stipe regained the title in August last year after losing it to Cormier a year earlier. A year of inactivity could cost him his belt, but we believe the UFC won’t decide on such a drastic move against the most successful heavyweight champion in the organization’s history.
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