What injury did Jon Jones sustain to withdraw from Stipe Miocic fight at UFC 295? Examining timeline of Jones' return to action

UFC CEO Dana White recently announced that Jon Jones is out of his highly anticipated title defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 next month. The reigning heavyweight champion reportedly suffered a severe pec tendon tear while training wrestling and will require surgery.

Based on White's information, it seems Jones has suffered a nasty pectoralis major tendon injury. This type of injury is commonly caused by sudden or eccentric forces and usually affects weightlifters.

Once the pectoralis major muscle is torn away from the shoulder bone, surgery is required due to the muscle tissue retracting the tendon away. Hence, natural healing isn't possible. However, with timely intervention, a full recovery could be made in about 6-9 months.

In a video posted to X, Dana White stated that Jon Jones could be sidelined for up to 8 months. This time period is consistent with the medically recommended rehabilitation period and will require Jones to undergo physical therapy after surgery.

As for the UFC 295 main event, the UFC CEO announced that Jiri Prochazka vs. Alex Pereira will serve as headliners. In the co-main event, Sergei Pavlovich will face Tom Aspinall for the interim heavyweight championship.

While fans will undoubtedly be disappointed by the news of Jon Jones being forced to pull out of his first title defense, younger prospects like Pavlovich and Aspinall undoubtedly present an exciting challenge to the legendary MMA fighter.

Now, the winner of Pavlovich vs. Aspinall will face Jones in a title unification bout sometime in late 2024.