Seasoned UFC competitor Anthony Smith shared his view that undisputed heavyweight champion Jon Jones is deliberately manipulating interim titleholder Tom Aspinall. For well over a year, Aspinall has been vocal about his desire for a unification bout against Jones to claim the undisputed heavyweight crown. However, despite Aspinall`s repeated public challenges, the fight has yet to be scheduled. This extended period of waiting is clearly taking its toll on Aspinall, who recently surpassed the record for the longest reign as an interim champion in UFC history. Smith believes this frustration is precisely what Jones intended.
Speaking on UFC Live, Smith advised Aspinall to consider being less outspoken. He posited that Aspinall`s current approach of provoking Jones and trying to target his ego is counterproductive, stating that Jones will not allow himself to be pressured into an ego-driven confrontation. Drawing from his own experience, having faced Jones in 2019, Smith described “Bones” as a master of manipulation who insists on maintaining absolute control over every situation. He highlighted Jones`s extensive history of employing psychological tactics against top-tier opponents over many years.
Smith suggested that Aspinall should alter his strategy, as his current method plays perfectly into Jones`s hands. While Aspinall operates with a typical fighter`s mindset—asserting his perceived superiority to force a challenge—Smith argued that Jones operates differently. “The person who cares the least in every negotiation wins,” Smith stated, summarizing Jones`s strategy. He added that Jones is largely indifferent to Tom Aspinall`s wishes and might even deliberately pursue the opposite course of action. Smith characterized dealing with Jones as one of the most “exhausting” experiences, noting Jones`s skill in mentally and emotionally wearing down opponents, an effect he believes is already becoming visible in Tom Aspinall.
