Interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall is eagerly awaiting the announcement of his next opponent, but it appears that the undisputed heavyweight titleholder Jon Jones may not be that fighter. Aspinall claimed the interim heavyweight title in November 2023 and has been vocal about his desire for a title unification bout since then. UFC CEO Dana White expressed confidence that matchmakers would secure this high-stakes fight, but Jones has reportedly been reluctant to engage with Aspinall.
Former UFC women's bantamweight champion Miesha Tate has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Jones might be avoiding Aspinall due to doubts about his ability to win. Tate stated, "I feel like Jon Jones is ducking Tom Aspinall. I think Jon Jones is an incredibly smart man, and he knows when he sees someone that would be difficult to beat." Tate believes Jones recognizes Aspinall's talent and potential threat, which could be influencing his decision to avoid a matchup.
Although Tate admits she has not closely followed the ongoing situation between Jones and Aspinall, she pointed out some confusing comments made by Jones. "Granted, I haven’t followed this religiously, but I’ve seen Jon Jones in an interview and saying, 'Oh, Tom Aspinall is talking all this crap,'" Tate remarked. "I think it was Ariel Helwani that was covering it, and I was like, what has Tom Aspinall said? I mean, he doesn’t even use curse words." Tate feels that Aspinall’s approach has been relatively respectful, casting doubt on Jones's rationale for avoiding the fight.
Tate emphasized that regardless of whether Aspinall has been critical or polite, it is the champion's duty to face challengers. "If Tom’s been respectful or has been disrespectful, it doesn’t matter. Your job is to prove that you’re the best, and you’re supposed to move up to heavyweight and do that," she stated. Tate's frustration highlights her belief that the heavyweight division is stagnant if titleholders do not actively pursue high-level competition.
As the heavyweight landscape remains uncertain, fans are left wondering if and when a clash between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones will materialize. Aspinall's growing presence in the heavyweight division creates excitement, and many see him as a legitimate contender for the heavyweight title. The urgency for Jones to defend his title is palpable among fans and fighters alike.
If the discussions between the UFC and Jon Jones do not lead to an announcement soon, it risks further stagnation of the division and may frustrate aspiring contenders like Aspinall. The heavyweight title picture requires clarification, and a faceoff between Aspinall and Jones could provide that clarity. Until then, the anticipation continues to build for a fight that many believe must happen.
Expectations are high for what lies ahead in the heavyweight division, and fans are eager to see how this situation unfolds. Whether Jon Jones steps in the octagon with Tom Aspinall or moves in a different direction, the outcome will significantly impact the heavyweight landscape and the careers of both fighters.
