Dana White praises Miocic's story, but leaves the fighter's future open

F. Ngannou (left) ran over S. Miocic (left) in the UFC 260 and won the heavyweight belt. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

After being defeated by Francis Ngannou, UFC 260, last Saturday (27), Stipe Miocic his reign at heavyweight (up to 120,2kg) was interrupted. In the press conference after the event, UFC president Dana White praised the former champion's history in the organization, but said he was in no rush to define his next step. The former champion's future in the sport is open.

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“I don’t know what the future holds for Stipe. Obviously after this fight he has to go home and heal and spend time with his family and then we'll talk about what's next. But I have nothing but the utmost respect for Miocic and everything he has done in this sport and for this company”, said the president.

The 'boss' also praised the fighter's record and reaffirmed that Miocic is the greatest heavyweight in the history of mixed martial arts.

“He is more solid than you can imagine. Stipe kept his job as a firefighter, is loved in his hometown (Cleveland) and will go down as the greatest heavyweight in UFC history. In the history of the sport, actually”, concluded Dana.

With a record of 20 wins and four losses, Miocic achieved two important records during his period as heavyweight leader. The North American is the athlete who has most successfully defended his belt in this division (four), and the fighter who has triumphed most in title fights (six).