In a dramatic turn of events leading up to UFC 309, Jon Jones has intensified his rhetoric regarding his match against Stipe Miocic, revealing that emotions are running high just days before the highly anticipated showdown. This Saturday, Jones (27-1 MMA, 21-1 UFC) will step back into the octagon after a lengthy 20-month layoff to defend his heavyweight title for the first time against the former two-time champion Miocic (20-4 MMA, 14-4 UFC) in the main event at New York City's iconic Madison Square Garden.

Initially, Jones had maintained a respectful stance toward Miocic as the fight approached. However, tensions escalated when Miocic publicly referred to Jones as a “b*tch” during a promotional segment for UFC 309. This comment, alongside Miocic's assertions about Jones being a poor role model for his children due to his past controversies, provoked an emotional backlash from the reigning champion.

In a press conference, Jones explained the shift in his attitude: “Everyone likes first responders, and I actually respect men and women in the armed forces and law enforcement. So I tried to be very respectful toward him,” Jones shared. "However, when he attacked my family with comments about my relationship with my children and called me a b*tch, the respect has gone out the window, and I will show that on Saturday."

When pressed about how personal the fight has become, Jones affirmed, “It’s very personal to me, yes.”

Conversely, Miocic appeared taken aback by Jones’ characterizations of their exchanges. He clarified, “I don’t even remember saying that about my kids. That was no direct thing to him.” He added that his response, “bring it on, b*tch,” was simply a defense to Jones’ bravado, emphasizing, “Every fight is personal in its own way, as you’re fighting another man in the octagon.”

As anticipation builds for the main event, fans are eager to witness whether this abated respect translates into an explosive encounter when these two titans face off. Can Jon Jones reclaim the spotlight after a lengthy hiatus, or will Stipe Miocic silence his critics in front of a sold-out crowd?

Mark your calendars—UFC 309 promises to be an unforgettable night of fierce competition and personal stakes. Will respect ever be restored, or has it been shattered forever? Tune in to see how this narrative unfolds!