Exclusive: Stipe Miocic Talks UFC Contract Disputes, Francis Ngannou, Says He Wasn’t Contacted About Jon Jones Fight

UFC Heavyweight Champion Stipe Miocic could cement himself in company history, but has to get past dominant challenger Francis Ngannou first.

With one more successful title defense, Miocic would break a record he shares with Brock Lesnar, Randy Couture and Tim Sylvia at the modest number of two. After an extended break since May, Miocic was in a contract dispute with the UFC. However, he told Fightful.com's James Lynch he wasn't concerned. 

"I have a good management team, they take care of everything, I don't worry about that. I took advantage of that. There wasn't really a number one contender, either. It was nice to take a breather, take my summer and get better," said Miocic.

During this period, a superfight was also discussed between Miocic and former light heavyweight champion Jon Jones. Even though Jones failed yet another drug test, Miocic noted that he's open to the idea, but wasn't in talks to make it happen in the summer of 2017.

"I didn't get a phone call about it. I really had no idea if that was happening. Your guess is as good as mine. I read something online where (Daniel Cormier) said he wanted to do that. I don't care, I'll fight anyone," Miocic said.

While non-committal about many subjects, including facing Cain Velasquez — he said he would if Cain could stay healthy — Miocic remained coy on both his opponent in Ngannou, and his legacy.

"He's definitely a power puncher, but so is Mark Hunt, so is JDS. Those guys hit hard too. There's no game plan, just don't get hit. Big guys throw big, heavy hands. He throws hard, but you lean in and you're going to get hit hard. I just like winning. It's people's opinion anyway. I'm here to keep winning. They can't deny me breaking the record," said the champion.

In the full interview, Stipe Miocic (17-2) discusses his upcoming title defense against Francis N'Gannou (11-1) at UFC 220 on Jan. 20. Stipe also talks about signing a new contract, his training camp for this fight, potentially competing in Pro Wrestling and a potential matchup against Cain Velasquez.