The anticipation for UFC 300 in Las Vegas, Nevada, is building. An array of exciting matchups are slated for the April 13 card.
The main event is yet to be revealed as UFC President Dana White faces challenges in securing a headlining bout.
One of the top bouts features the women’s UFC strawweight champion Zhang Weili defending her title against Yan Xiaonan. This clash promises to be a highlight, showcasing the talent and prowess of two Chinese combatants in the octagon.
In another high-stakes encounter, BMF title holder Justin Gaethje is set to square off against Max Holloway. Adding to the mix is a crucial lightweight clash between Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan. This matchup is expected to be a pivotal moment, potentially setting the stage for future title contention in the lightweight division.
In addition, there are interesting bouts like Jiri Prochazka vs Aleksandar Rakic and Holly Holm versus Kayla Harrison.
Despite these compelling matchups, the UFC 300 main event remains undisclosed. Dana White and his team sought to secure Jon Jones for the headlining bout, but the UFC superstar declined the offer.
When questioned about the proposal, Jon Jones revealed that he received a call from Hunter Campbell asking him to headline UFC 300. But Jones turned down the opportunity, citing that he wouldn’t be adequately prepared within the nine-week timeframe.
Jones stated: “I did. I got a call from Hunter Campbell, one of the head lawyers of the UFC, asking me… ‘Jon, I know it’s only nine weeks away, but if there’s any chance you’re feeling up to it, man, It’d be awesome news for the community that you’re coming back and headlining one of the biggest events ever’.”
Jones expressed gratitude for the honor but emphasized that considering his age, he wants to ensure he returns at his best.
He added: “As honoured as I am for the opportunity, I just don’t think I’ll be ready. I just don’t. And so, I’m getting up there in age. I only have a few more events left, and I want to give those events my all and make sure that I come back 100 per cent.”
The UFC heavyweight champion, hasn’t competed since March 2023 when he claimed the vacant title by defeating Ciryl Gane. His last scheduled bout against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 in November was derailed due to an injury, leading to Tom Aspinall winning the interim UFC heavyweight title by defeating Sergei Pavlovich.
Despite Aspinall’s victory and subsequent calls for a matchup with Jones, the challenges in making this match a reality persist. Focused on his recovery and preparing for his return, Jones has yet to respond to Aspinall’s relentless callouts.
As UFC 300 approaches, the search for the main event continues.