UFC heavyweight Curtis Blaydes recently shared his perspective on the much-anticipated Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall fight prospects, expressing doubt that the bout will take place. Jon Jones, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion, has only competed twice since moving up to this division, despite the anticipation of a title defense against interim champion Tom Aspinall. However, Jones’s apparent reluctance to face Aspinall has raised uncertainty about the fight’s future.
Concerns Over the Heavyweight Division’s Future
The heavyweight division‘s championship landscape is currently unclear, largely due to Jones’s hesitance and his tendency to create suspense for fans and critics alike. With the division’s status hanging in the balance, many feel that the UFC must soon make a firm decision to move forward. Curtis Blaydes, considered a top contender himself, weighed in on the situation and the implications for the division.
Blaydes Predicts Ciryl Gane Will Seize Opportunity
Speaking to Inside Fighting, Blaydes expressed his belief that the chance to fight for the heavyweight title might pass to Ciryl Gane rather than Tom Aspinall. He stated,
“I do believe that’ll probably go to Gane because I don’t think Jon’s ever going to fight Aspinall,”
highlighting his skepticism about Jones accepting the Aspinall challenge.
Blaydes refrained from labeling Jones as scared but emphasized that the champion has yet to defeat a prime heavyweight. He explained,
“I’m not going to be disrespectful and say he’s scared. He can’t be scared,”
and added that Jones’s wins over Gane and Stipe Miocic were against fighters who were either vulnerable in grappling or past their prime.
Continuing with his analysis, Blaydes pointed out the significance of Jones facing Aspinall. He remarked,
“If Jon were to beat Tom, we would all be like, ‘OK, he legitimately is the GOAT, he legitimately won the heavyweight title.’ I think it would help him – even if he lost, bro, we get it, you’re old, you’re not a real heavyweight. We get it. You can lose. It’s OK.”
Implications for UFC Heavyweight Division
The uncertainty about a Jones vs Aspinall fight casts doubt on the heavyweight division’s immediate future, as the possibility of Ciryl Gane stepping in gains traction. Jones’s hesitation and selective fight opportunities are shaping the competitive structure of the division, leaving contenders like Blaydes and fans awaiting a clear path forward. The situation highlights the need for the UFC to solidify plans that maintain momentum and clarity for heavyweight championship fights.