Stipe Miocic's recent apology to Jon Jones has elicited mixed reactions from MMA fans worldwide. Many made fun of the former champion, pointing out that the fierce hostility that existed between the fighters prior to their UFC bouts has subsided, even though some expressed their admiration for Miocic.
For context, Miocic made some disparaging remarks about Jones in the most recent 'UFC 309 Countdown' episode, which was posted on UFC's YouTube channel, prior to their heavyweight title fight this Saturday.
Jones, who always had a sense of respect for Miocic, took offense at the latter's comments. The reigning champion responded by giving the challenger a stern warning.
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During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Miocic acknowledged his mistake, saying that he didn't mean to disrespect Jones and offered a sincere apology. A user named ACD MMA took to X and shared the clip, writing:
''UFC fighters publicly apologising for trash talk. WHAT HAPPENED TO THE GAME I LOVE''
Check out the post below:
Fans soon rushed to the comments section to share their reactions.
One fan wrote:
''Called respect most fighters have it, stick to eating Cheetos in ur moms spare room''
Another fan stated:
''It's Stipe, bro just a regular good ol American that happens to a master at the art of throwing hands''
Other fans wrote:
''It was the fakest form of pretending to be offended and he still foldeddddddd noooo, atleast he aint pretending''
''It is still there... few are just straightup good person.''
Check out more reactions below:

As for their most recent octagon appearances, Jones faced Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 285 last year, winning by first-round submission to become a two-division champion. Meanwhile, Miocic lost by knockout in the second round to Francis Ngannou at UFC 260 in 2021.
Fedor Emelianenko gives his take on Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic matchup
MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko recently shared his opinion on Stipe Miocic's chances against Jon Jones when the two lock horns at UFC 309 on Nov. 16.
In a recent interview with Ushatayka, Emelianenko expressed doubts about Miocic's strength, citing his title matchup with former champion Francis Ngannou. He said:
“He’s [Miocic] light on his feet but he doesn’t have enough power. It was evident in his fight against Francis Ngannou.”
Check out Fedor Emelianenko's comments below: