Eye injury practically rules out Miocic's possibility of defending title in 2019

S. Miocic at a press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

It may still be a while before fans of Stipe Miocic see the heavyweight (up to 120,2kg.) in action again. There is a rumor going around behind the scenes at Ultimate that there is a negotiation to schedule a third meeting between the North American and his compatriot, Daniel Cormier. Stipe's manager, however, tried to minimize the chances of the clash happening this year, as he admitted that his client has an eye injury. The information was declared to 'ESPN'.

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“Mr. Miocic suffered a major retinal injury due to multiple blows to the eyes during his fight at UFC 241 (against Daniel Cormier). The health and safety of our customers is our highest priority. We are excited for him to return to action when he is healthy to compete in his seventh consecutive world title fight,” said Jim.

Your last opponent, Daniel Cormier, confirmed at the beginning of this week his desire to have another duel against Stipe. The North American's decision contradicts a portion of MMA enthusiasts, who believed in the fighter's possible retirement, since, in several interviews in the past, the athlete said that he did not intend to work in mixed martial arts after the age of 40 - completed in beginning of this year.

The rematch against Miocic will be the final settlement between the heavyweights, who have one victory each. DC managed to surprise Stipe in July last year, when he moved up from the light heavyweight category (up to 93kg) and challenged the giant in a title fight. Cormier scored a great knockout in the first round and became yet another athlete to hold two titles in different categories.

Just over a year later, revenge. Stipe managed to pay, with interest, for the defeat suffered in the past. At UFC 241, the North American, who apparently lost the fight during the first three rounds, changed his strategy in the fourth stage and managed to overcome his opponent with a devastating knockout.

After the event, Miocic, despite avoiding answers about who he would like to face, stated that he would share the octagon against whoever Ultimate requested. Recently the athlete spoke about returning to fights.

“I'll be ready to fight when I can see with both eyes. I can’t wait to defend my belt”, concluded the fighter.

Stipe holds the record for most heavyweight title defenses. The athlete managed to make three defenses and is considered by many to be the best heavyweight in the organization's history.