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Jon Jones declines offer to headline UFC 300 due to readiness

Jon Jones poses for picture

UFC 300 is set to take place on April 13th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, promising a night of high-stakes action for fight fans around the world. While the card boasts an official title fight and a BMF title fight, the main event has yet to be announced by the UFC.

One notable absence from the event will be UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. After claiming the vacant UFC heavyweight crown with a submission victory over Ciryl Gane in March 2023, Jones revealed that he was approached by the UFC to headline UFC 300. However, he ultimately had to decline the offer.

In an interview with Submission Radio, Jones explained, 'I got a call from Hunter Campbell, one of the head lawyers of the UFC. He said, 'Jon, I know it's only nine weeks away, but if there's any chance you're feeling up to it, it would be awesome news for the community that you're coming back and headlining one of the biggest events ever.' And, as honored as I am for the opportunity, I just don't think I'll be ready. I just don't.'

Acknowledging his age and the limited number of events he has left in his career, Jones expressed his desire to return to the Octagon at 100% and deliver his best performances. Although he had to decline the opportunity to headline UFC 300, fans can still anticipate his return in the near future.

Even without Jones headlining the event, UFC 300 boasts an impressive lineup of fights. One of the highlights is the women's strawweight scrap between champion Zhang Weili and the No. 1 ranked Yan Xiaonan. This clash of titans is sure to captivate fans as both fighters put their skills on display in the quest for supremacy.

Additionally, a BMF (Baddest Mother F*cker) title fight is scheduled between Justin Gaethje and former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway. The lightweight battle promises to be an intense showdown between two fighters known for their aggressive fighting styles and ability to deliver thrilling performances.

Other notable matchups on the UFC 300 card include a title eliminator fight between Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan, a clash between former UFC bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt and ex-flyweight titleholder Deiveson Figueiredo, as well as several other exciting bouts.

While the anticipation for the main event of UFC 300 continues to grow, fight fans can rest assured that the card is stacked with talent and thrilling matchups. The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is set to be the stage for an unforgettable night of MMA action, where champions will be crowned, legacies will be solidified, and the world will witness the raw intensity that the UFC is known for.

Be sure to mark your calendars for April 13th and stay tuned for the official announcement of the main event for UFC 300.

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