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A decorated UFC champion has thrown cold water on Tom Aspinall’s dream showdown with Jon Jones, urging the interim heavyweight titleholder to abandon hopes of facing the divisional kingpin. For over a year, fans have clamored for Jones vs. Aspinall—a collision of two dominant champions with Jones holding the undisputed belt and Aspinall the interim crown. Despite UFC CEO Dana White’s assurance the fight will materialize in 2025, negotiations remain stagnant, with whispers of financial roadblocks and scheduling standoffs.
As anticipation wanes, this UFC legend argues it’s time for Aspinall to stop waiting and start fighting. But why? Let’s unpack the advice shaking up the heavyweight division.
Why this UFC icon says Tom Aspinall should step away from Jon Jones fight
The voice of reason? Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, a record-setting former flyweight champion and one of MMA’s sharpest minds. On Submission Radio, Johnson didn’t mince words: If he were Aspinall, he’d ditch the Jones bout entirely.
His reasoning? Time is ticking. Tom Aspinall hasn’t fought since defending his interim strap against Curtis Blaydes in mid-2024, and Jon Jones reportedly wants six more months to prepare—a timeline Johnson calls unreasonable.
“If I was Tom Aspinall, I’d be like, ‘God, dude, I’m not waiting six months,’” Johnson argued. “Y’all need to give me another fight… Defend the interim championship.”
Johnson’s stance stems from his own career philosophy. With 11 title defenses, he prioritized activity over marquee matchups, a strategy he believes Aspinall should adopt.
“When you put a young athlete on ice, they lose momentum and money,” he emphasized. While beating Jones could cement Aspinall’s legacy, Johnson warns that letting the GOAT dictate terms risks sidelining the Brit’s prime. “Everybody’s fighting on Jon Jones’ timeline… If I was Aspinall, I’d pass.”
The stats back Johnson’s urgency. Since winning the interim belt in late 2023, Tom Aspinall’s fought just once, while Jon Jones has been sidelined since injuring himself ahead of a scrapped Stipe Miocic clash. With Miocic now retired, the division’s logjam grows thicker. Johnson’s solution? Book Aspinall against a fresh contender, defend the interim title, and force the UFC’s hand.
The bigger picture
Johnson’s advice highlights a recurring UFC dilemma: balancing legacy fights with career pragmatism. For Aspinall, the Jones bout offers unparalleled prestige—but at what cost? Waiting risks ring rust, fan disinterest, or even Jones retiring (again). Conversely, staying active keeps Aspinall relevant, paid, and prepared for any opportunity.
As the stalemate drags on, Tom Aspinall faces a crossroads. He could chase the superfight, betting on his skills against MMA’s boogeyman. Or he could heed Johnson’s wisdom, build his resume, and let Jon Jones come to him. Either way, one truth remains: In combat sports, time waits for no one—not even a heavyweight king-in-waiting.
