Jon Jones reiterates intent to fight Stipe Miocic: 'I'm starting to realize the hype is real'

Former long-time light heavyweight champion Jon Jones had always foreseen a stint at heavyweight in his future. In January, he was already considering to face current champion Stipe Miocic in a possible fight at UFC 196.

However, the catch was that the fight should only be for the heavyweight strap.

If it was for the actual title I would totally do it https://t.co/ur2Rq1ycOI

— Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) January 26, 2016

On Saturday night at UFC 203, Miocic was able to successfully defend his title against Alistair Overeem by emerging victorious via first round knockout, in front of his home crowd in Cleveland. The said fight was apparently caught by Jones, who was utterly impressed by how the young champion handled himself against his teammate in Overeem.

So much so that "Bones" says he is willing to take on such a "challenge of a lifetime."

I'm starting to realize the hype is real with that guy. He's legit, I would be the challenge of a lifetime https://t.co/ybke2pAtAC

— Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) September 12, 2016

Jones’ immediate fighting future, however, is in limbo, after a failed drug test at UFC 200 forced him out of his rematch against Daniel Cormier. No date for his UFC return has been determined, as he is still under a temporary suspension slapped by the Nevada Athletic Commission.