Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier has criticized Jon Jones for backing out of a long-anticipated fight against Tom Aspinall, calling him a “quitter” and questioning his commitment. This development unfolded in 2024 amid ongoing debates about Jon Jones legacy snubs Aspinall fight and its impact on his standing within the sport.

Jon Jones, a fighter widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists, recently announced his early retirement after months of speculation. UFC president Dana White confirmed the news Saturday, which Jones later acknowledged publicly. Jones’ decision to avoid facing Aspinall, who had held an interim title for an extended period, has been met with sharp disappointment, particularly from those who know Jones well.

Daniel Cormier Condemns Jones for Avoiding Aspinall Matchup

Daniel Cormier, a two-time opponent of Jon Jones, called Jones’ refraining from the Tom Aspinall fight a clear sign of quitting, despite Jones’ legacy being deeply intertwined with his toughness and competitive spirit. On his official YouTube channel, Cormier stated,

“Unbelievable. I didn’t think it was gonna happen this fast, ….I said, ‘If Jon Jones doesn’t fight this guy, Jon Jones quit.’ Because he will walk away from something that has defined his entire adult life — It does not change the fact, by not stepping in that Octagon, he quit. He didn’t want to fight Tom Aspinall, it’s so surprising…Is he scared? No, but by not fighting Aspinall, he opened that conversation. He lets every one of you question why he doesn’t fight him.” —Daniel “DC” Cormier via his Official YT Channel

Cormier’s harsh words emphasize the controversy now surrounding Jones’ career, as many expected him to face the rising British heavyweight contender. Despite Cormier’s respect for Jones’ longevity and accomplishments in different weight classes, he condemned the decision to forgo what some viewed as a defining challenge.

Jon Jones’ Career and Controversies Leading to This Point

Jon Jones, often referred to as “Bones,” has dominated the UFC light heavyweight division and claimed the heavyweight belt with style. Though Jones beat Cormier twice, the second victory was later ruled a no-contest after Cormier tested positive for a banned substance. Jones himself has had a controversial history with drug testing, having tested positive for estrogen blockers and other prohibited substances around 2016.

Despite these controversies, Jones’ reign included a notable heavyweight title defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, where Jones secured a third-round TKO. His strategic victories against top opponents bolstered his reputation as one of the best fighters at 265 pounds. Yet, his tendency to avoid certain matchups has repeatedly stirred debate about the true extent of his legacy.

Many, including Cormier, have acknowledged Jones’ impressive ability to adapt and compete through changing eras in the UFC, but his reluctance to face Tom Aspinall has cast a shadow on his career achievements. Aspinall, now the undisputed heavyweight champion after holding the interim belt, represents the only major heavyweight contender Jones has declined to fight.

Expectations for Jon Jones’ Return and Future Prospects

Despite announcing retirement, Jon Jones hinted during a training seminar at the Bangtao Muay Thai MMA gym that he might consider returning to the octagon. He suggested that hanging up his gloves may be the best choice for preserving his brand and legacy, especially since he reportedly informed UFC executives of his intention to retire.

Jones has also been vague about upcoming plans, leaving fans and analysts uncertain if a comeback is in the works. Some speculation includes a possible return in late 2025 at a major UFC pay-per-view event, potentially at the T-Mobile arena, according to UFC commentator Jon Anik. Jones has previously teased fighting Tom Aspinall in non-UFC settings, choosing mixed rule bouts over a UFC showdown, a decision that has drawn criticism.

Daniel Cormier voiced his concerns about Jones’ future in mixed martial arts, saying,

“I honestly feel like if Tom loses, he’ll come back, …It is crazy to me, because that’s only going to make it worse; …I don’t know if this is tactics by the UFC. I don’t know if this is frustrations with Jon Jones. I don’t know what this is. Does it feel like the end completely? I hope it does, because if he cares about his legacy, he doesn’t want to be sitting there beating up on guys that may get past Tom Aspinall.” —Daniel “DC” Cormier further said on his Official YT Channel

The significance of this situation lies in Aspinall’s status as a credible and bankable heavyweight fighter ready to define the division’s future, which Jones’ absence potentially undermines. With many in the UFC and fanbase awaiting a heavyweight unification bout that could elevate the division’s visibility, Jones’ withdrawal leaves a notable vacuum.

Tom Aspinall’s Rise and Its Impact on the Heavyweight Landscape

Tom Aspinall has rapidly climbed the ranks, defeating several top contenders to solidify his position as the interim and now undisputed UFC heavyweight champion. His success threatens to reshape the division’s hierarchy, with many expecting him to face Jones in a unification bout that never materialized.

Jones’ reluctance to fight Aspinall remains a sticking point for the UFC, the fighters, and the fans. UFC president Dana White has expressed sympathy for Aspinall’s loss of potential earnings and time due to the failed negotiations with Jones. The lengthy buildup and eventual collapse of the bout have added frustration to an already tense heavyweight division.

For Aspinall, asserting dominance as the undisputed champion offers a chance to capitalize on the momentum Jones abandoned. For Jones, the choice presents both a risk to his unbeaten aura and a challenge to his image as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Looking Ahead: The UFC Heavyweight Title Picture and Jon Jones’ Legacy

As UFC 317 and other major events approach, the heavyweight division remains volatile. Jones’ future choices and potential return will heavily influence the sport’s narrative and competitive environment. Analysts and fans eagerly await clarity on whether Jones will re-enter the octagon or officially close the chapter on his storied career.

Daniel Cormier’s remarks underscore the importance of legacy in UFC, where stepping into the octagon against rising contenders is often the measure of greatness. Jones’ decision to avoid Tom Aspinall not only invites questions about courage and competitive spirit but also threatens to diminish the accomplishments that once positioned him as the consensus pound-for-pound best fighter.

With substantial interest from oddsmakers, promoters, and fight fans worldwide, the heavyweight division faces a pivotal moment that could redefine its future. Whether Jon Jones chooses to fight or retire definitively, his legacy and the shadow cast by his decisions will continue to provoke intense debate within the MMA community for years to come.