Georges St-Pierre suggests that Tom Aspinall should cease dwelling on the situation involving Jon Jones.
For more than a year, Aspinall has been actively seeking a fight against Jones to unify the UFC heavyweight championships. This pursuit has encountered difficulties. Initially, the interim heavyweight titleholder was bypassed in favor of a significant legacy bout between Jones and former champion Stipe Miocic last November. Now, the latest rumors indicate that negotiations for a potential fight are still stalled, and the UFC is reportedly even considering having Aspinall defend his interim title for a second time this summer. This sequence of events is becoming increasingly frustrating for Aspinall and his team, but St-Pierre advises that he must try not to be preoccupied with it.
“I believe Tom needs to concentrate on the upcoming challenge,” St-Pierre conveyed to Ariel Helwani. “I recall making the error after losing to Matt Serra of immediately trying to focus on getting my revenge. However, I had several other fights scheduled before that opportunity arose. If he fixates solely on Jon Jones, and Jones doesn`t return promptly, he`s not directing his focus appropriately. He needs to concentrate on the next step, the immediate path. Everything else is a diversion.”
“Matters that are destined to happen will occur. I`m unsure what Jon will decide, but as a fan, I`d love to witness this fight. In terms of legacy and achievements, Jon Jones stands as the greatest. I understand Tom`s perspective; he is a proud fighter who aspires to defeat the best. Yet, it now hinges entirely on Jon`s intentions. If Jon still wishes to proceed, if he receives fair compensation – all these factors play a role. Therefore, Tom should avoid focusing on this, as it is beyond his influence and consumes significant energy.”
It is certainly easy to empathize with Aspinall`s potential frustration. He has now officially become the longest-holding interim champion in UFC history, exceeding Renan Barao`s 535-day tenure while Dominick Cruz was sidelined by injury. Aspinall finds himself in an unprecedented position, simply waiting on Jon Jones`s decision, while the UFC appears comfortable allowing Jones ample time. Despite this, St-Pierre encourages Aspinall to set these thoughts aside.
“I know it`s very difficult, but you must somehow self-condition yourself to focus on the next objective and maintain eagerness for the upcoming task,” St-Pierre stated. “By consistently concentrating solely on the immediate next step, he will progressively build his legacy, and perhaps one day, he will be recognized as the greatest. He possesses all the necessary attributes.”
Furthermore, St-Pierre also understands Jon Jones`s standpoint. The welterweight G.O.A.T. experienced his own challenges with the UFC and contract discussions at times, so he comprehends Jones`s position.
“Many people desire this fight because they widely believe he is the one capable of deciphering Jon Jones`s style,” St-Pierre remarked. “As a fan, I wish to see this bout. I grasp both perspectives. Jon seeks fair compensation; it`s a matter of negotiation, a strategic game. On the other hand, Tom is in a holding pattern. I understand both viewpoints, but Tom must concentrate on what lies ahead and, in a sense, clear his mind of the rest, focusing exclusively on that.”
As of today, Tom Aspinall holds the record for the longest time as interim champion in UFC history. Many argue there should be a rule that after holding an interim title for over a year, a fighter should simply be recognized as the undisputed champion. It is past time for the UFC to either schedule the unification fight or strip Jon Jones of his title.
