Stipe Miocic shares disappointment over Francis Ngannou's UFC exit, comments on 'The Predator's' venture into boxing

Stipe Miocic, the two-time UFC heavyweight champion, has shared his thoughts on ex-champion and former foe Francis Ngannou’s venture into boxing and PFL move.

In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Miocic was asked about Ngannou's UFC exit. He revealed that he was disappointed he couldn't take on 'The Predator' in a trilogy bout, with their rivalry at 1-1. However, the 42-year-old also admitted that he's happy for Ngannou, who has a lucrative contract with the PFL and has made millions from his two high-profile boxing bouts against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

“Of course. You know, because I wanted the same. I understand he's doing better for himself and his family. Yeah, I'm not mad at him—he's doing great.”

When asked if he watched Ngannou's fights against Fury and Joshua, both of which he lost, Miocic answered:

“No, I only saw clips of it. He did well with Fury, and unfortunately, it didn’t go as well in the second one with Joshua. But that's fighting; it happens. No one’s going to fault him for taking a lot of money in those situations. But obviously, stepping into the deep waters of the heavyweight division on day one takes a lot, right?”

Check out Stipe Miocic’s comments below (4:34):

Miocic faced the Cameroonian twice. In their first encounter, Ngannou lost via unanimous decision at UFC 220. In the rematch, 'The Predator' bounced back and defeated Miocic by TKO in the second round to win the heavyweight title at UFC 260.

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Stipe Miocic praises Jon Jones ahead of UFC 309

Stipe Miocic hasn't fought since his rematch with Francis Ngannou in 2021. Much to the ire of fans, the Ohio native was handed a shot at reigning champion Jon Jones despite Tom Aspinall's status as the interim champion.

Per UFC CEO Dana White, Miocic's accomplishments in the heavyweight division earned him a title shot against Jones. Ahead of the clash between the two legends, the two-time titleholder praised 'Bones'. In the same interview, he said:

"I think he's just good at what he does. He's an artist! He knows how to mix it up. He knows how to keep a guy guessing him, you know? That's why he's done so well." [3:23]