Home
Interim UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall has launched a fresh jab at divisional kingpin Jon Jones, pulling back the curtain on the roadblocks stalling their long-awaited title unification clash. The British powerhouse, who’s traded fiery words with Jones online and in interviews for months, claims the delay lies squarely on the champion’s shoulders. Despite UFC CEO Dana White confirming plans for the bout in 2025, negotiations have hit a wall, leaving fans in limbo.
While analysts debate whether Aspinall’s dynamism can dethrone Jones’ legendary reign, one question looms: Why isn’t this fight booked yet? Aspinall’s latest remarks might just hold the answer.
Tom Aspinall points finger at Jon Jones
In a candid YouTube vlog, Aspinall didn’t mince words about the holdup.
“Where we’re at right now is, I have spoke to the UFC on multiple occasions about this fight,” he revealed. “I’m chasing it. I want the fight. I’ve been on record and said that I want the fight… What’s holding it up right now is his side. That’s the truth of it.”
The interim champ emphasized the UFC’s eagerness to make the bout happen, calling it “one of the biggest fights in MMA.” But according to Tom Aspinall, Jon Jones’ team hasn’t met them halfway.
“Does he want to put himself in a position where he’s comfortable enough financially to take the risk that he’s taking to fight me? That is where we’re at.”
Aspinall, who last fought in July 2024, even hinted at the stakes for Jones:
“The UFC tell me they’re doing everything they can… It’s now totally down to Jon Jones and his team to work that out. I’m literally just waiting for a date.”
Why this stalemate matters
Aspinall’s frustration underscores a growing tension in the heavyweight division. Since claiming interim gold in late 2023, the 31-year-old has relentlessly pursued Jones, even offering to defend his interim belt again to stay active. Yet, Jones—who returned from a three-year hiatus to knock out Stipe Miocic in November 2023—appears in no rush.
Critics argue Jones, widely regarded as the MMA GOAT, is avoiding the risk Aspinall poses. The Brit’s explosive striking and submission savvy make him a unique threat to Jones’ undefeated legacy. Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall’s transparency has won him fans but risks typecasting him as the “fighter who only calls out Jones.”
A clash of eras and egos
The delay also highlights a generational divide. Jon Jones, 36, represents the old guard—a tactical veteran protecting his throne. Aspinall, hungry and rising, embodies the new wave of heavyweights eager to redefine the division. Their rivalry isn’t just about belts; it’s a battle for legacy.
Jones hasn’t publicly addressed Aspinall’s latest claims, but his silence speaks volumes. For Aspinall, patience is wearing thin: “I’m just waiting for the call right now.”
What’s next?
With the UFC reportedly pushing for a 2025 showdown, the pressure is on Jones to step up or face accusations of ducking. Aspinall, meanwhile, remains ready to answer the bell—whether against Jones or another contender.
One thing’s clear: Until these two share the Octagon, the heavyweight division’s future hangs in limbo. And Tom Aspinall’s message to Jon Jones is simple: “The ball’s in your court.”
