Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion, is seeking clarity about his next opponent, just like everyone else in the MMA world.
He’s been patiently waiting for a chance to face Jon Jones in a unification bout for the heavyweight title. However, the constant questions about this potential matchup have become tiresome for the 31-year-old fighter, as the decision is now out of his hands. Aspinall has provided an update, placing the onus squarely on Jones to decide if he will accept the fight.
“Many people know me primarily for discussions about Jon Jones, which is unfortunate because I’ve achieved a lot in the UFC,” Aspinall acknowledged on his YouTube channel. “I’ve avoided media and Jon Jones talks lately because, frankly, I’m tired of it myself. But updates are necessary. I see many online articles with misinformation.”
“Currently, I’ve communicated with the UFC multiple times about this fight. I am actively pursuing it. I want this fight. I’ve publicly stated my desire for this fight and confirmed it in discussions with the UFC – asking when it will happen. My desire for this fight is paramount. The hold-up is on his side. That’s the honest truth.”
Jones last competed in November, defeating former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic in what was considered Miocic’s retirement fight. Since then, Jones has hinted at future possibilities, including a fight against current UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, who has been dominant in the 205-pound division.
UFC CEO Dana White has expressed confidence in arranging a fight between Aspinall and Jones in 2025, but specific details regarding the date or location remain unconfirmed.
Aspinall states he has accepted the fight and informed the UFC of his flexibility regarding date and location, as long as the undisputed title is at stake.
“The UFC really wants this fight to happen,” Aspinall stated. “They’ve told me this. It’s widely recognized as one of the biggest possible fights in MMA right now. The question is whether he feels financially secure enough to take the risk of fighting me. That’s the current situation.”
“As far as I understand, it’s entirely up to Jon Jones and his team. I’m in, and the UFC is in. They assure me they are working diligently to make the fight happen whenever I speak to them. I’m simply waiting for a date.”
Adding a new dimension, Aspinall mentioned that if Jones declines to fight him or is no longer interested in defending his heavyweight title, he is willing to move on.
Aspinall’s primary goal is to become the undisputed UFC champion. Whether that path involves Jones or other top contenders like Ciryl Gane or Jailton Almeida, he is prepared to sign a contract immediately.
“To be honest, it’s not solely about the Jon Jones fight; I just want to fight,” Aspinall clarified. “I’m in peak condition. I’ve been training rigorously since before Christmas, with twice-daily gym sessions, a strict diet, and sparring. I have international training partners here. I’m ready to fight anyone. However, the UFC’s priority is to make the fight with Jon. From my understanding, the delay might be related to financial aspects, but I’m not entirely sure. I’m just awaiting the call, fully prepared to compete.”
“I want to emphasize that I am only interested in fighting for the undisputed title. That’s my only condition. I’m willing to fight anyone. My record and history with promoters, both in the UFC and elsewhere, show that I have never declined a fight or an opponent, and I won’t start now. It’s important to recognize that I’ve earned my shot at the undisputed title. I believe I am the best heavyweight in the world and I just want the opportunity to prove it.”
Despite his eagerness to fight soon, Aspinall understands the UFC’s preference for the Jones fight due to its significance and financial potential.
Having defeated most of the top 10 heavyweight contenders, Aspinall’s options are somewhat limited, but he insists he is not the one hindering the division’s progress.
“I’m not refusing any fights. I’m not acting like a diva or demanding more money. I’m here to be exciting, do what I love, and finish fights. That’s what I want to do, but currently, I am not the one holding up this division. Let’s get things moving.”
“The division is currently stalled, and it’s not because of me. I want to fight and I need to fight for the undisputed heavyweight title because I’ve already defeated most of the top 10 heavyweights in the first round. I am ready to face anyone else I haven’t fought yet as well.”
It’s uncertain how long negotiations will continue before the UFC explores other options. Aspinall hopes Jones makes a decision soon so he can plan the rest of his 2025.
“Remember what I said a while ago: ‘I will retire Jon Jones without even fighting him?’” Aspinall recalled.
“Jon, let’s make it happen. If you’re willing, you won’t have to ask me twice. If not, I’ll fight someone else for the undisputed belt. I’m happy to fight anyone, anytime, anywhere – it doesn’t matter. I’m ready.”
