The saga involving UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall and his anticipated bout with the undisputed titleholder Jon Jones keeps dragging on, and it seems the British fighter is ready to move forward without him.
Dissatisfied Tom Aspinall Prepared to Move Beyond Potential Jones Match Amid Lack of Official Announcement
During UFC 304, Tom Aspinall stood out as one of the rare interim champions to successfully defend his belt, delivering a remarkable first-round KO against Curtis Blaydes, the last fighter to defeat him. In his post-fight interview, Aspinall respectfully issued a challenge to Jon Jones, widely recognized as the top heavyweight globally, aiming for a potential superfight later in the year.
However, instead of this anticipated matchup, the promotion opted to pit "Bones" against the former 265-lb champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, where Jones scored a third-round knockout against the Ohio veteran. UFC CEO Dana White mentioned at the post-fight conference for UFC on ESPN 63 that Aspinall would eventually meet Jones in the octagon sometime in 2025.
In the ensuing months, the British fighter has persistently attempted to set a date for what many would consider a monumental clash with arguably the sport’s greatest competitor. Yet, Jones has remained silent, with no updates from the UFC thus far. This inactivity has left Aspinall feeling frustrated, leading him to declare he might abandon the idea of fighting Jones and instead pursue other matches as the reigning heavyweight champion.
Tom Aspinall Expresses Frustration on YouTube
Tom Aspinall took to his YouTube channel to update MMA fans on the situation, suggesting that while he, his team, and the UFC are eager for the match, they’re still awaiting a response from the champion.
"Here’s where we stand—I’ve had multiple conversations with the UFC about this fight," Aspinall explained. "I’m chasing it down; I want this fight. I’ve been vocal about it, spoken with the UFC over the phone saying I want it. ‘When’s the fight? I want it more than anyone.’ What’s keeping it up is his side, that’s the real story here."
Aspinall Elaborates Further
“Is he at a point where he’s financially comfortable to risk facing me? That’s the question we’re at now,” he continued. “The UFC’s been transparent with me, showing they’re keen to make this fight happen. So, as far as I’m concerned, it’s entirely up to Jon Jones and his team to figure this out.”
Should "Bones" choose not to defend his title against Aspinall, and if he either willingly vacates or the company decides to strip him, Aspinall is prepared to face another opponent for the undisputed championship.
"Remember what I said way back? I’ll retire Jon Jones without ever fighting him—that was my promise," he stated. "Jon, let’s settle this! If you’re up for it, I’m here. If not, I’ll fight someone else for the belt. Ready to go against anyone, anytime, anywhere. I’m eagerly waiting."
Will Tom Aspinall Achieve His Desire?
Having held the interim title for over a year, Tom Aspinall has been repeatedly denied the chance for a showdown with Jones. The situation has frustrated not only the British fighter but also the wider MMA community, as fans watch one of the division’s most dynamic fighters lose valuable time in his prime.
As the spring moves in and more marquee bouts are announced, there’s hope the UFC might finally unveil the much-anticipated clash Aspinall has been yearning for. Until then, the world waits, eager for the day when this significant matchup in combat sports emerges from the shadows.
