In a recent podcast with ESPN, Jon Jones opened up about the disappointment of his postponed UFC 295 fight against Stipe Miocic, which was scheduled for November 2023. Jones’ pectoral injury, sustained during training, required immediate surgery and forced him to step back from his usual routine. This setback was especially tough for Jones, who admitted he feared that an injury at his age could potentially spell the end of his career.

Jones described how the injury and subsequent surgery impacted both his physical and mental state. Initially, he was unable to engage in regular training and experienced weight gain. However, Jones took this as an opportunity to focus on physical therapy and rebuilding strength, particularly in his chest and shoulders. While this wasn’t the training he was used to, it allowed him to work on the fundamentals of recovery and gain new insights into his body’s needs.

One major takeaway from this period was an increased appreciation for recovery and rehabilitation. Jones shared that he now values therapy more deeply, seeing it as an essential component of his long-term athletic health. “I’ve learned so much about what my body needs,” Jones said, explaining how he’s become smarter and more strategic with his training, which he believes will benefit him moving forward. He emphasized that he feels more confident than ever and is grateful for the guidance from his coaches and trainers, who’ve helped him adapt and continue progressing.

Jones also took a moment to apologize to his fans and Miocic, acknowledging the dedication it takes for everyone involved to prepare for a high-stakes match. Despite the delay, Jones remains motivated and is optimistic about his return in 2024. He’s now focused on healing completely and returning to the octagon stronger, with renewed confidence and a fresh perspective on longevity and success in MMA.

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