UFC legend Demetrious Johnson recently expressed his doubts about Jon Jones‘ decision to retire without ever facing Tom Aspinall in a heavyweight title unification bout. This development came after Dana White officially confirmed Jones’ retirement and announced Aspinall as the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion.
Johnson shared his candid thoughts in a YouTube video, highlighting the uncertainty regarding Jones’ reasons for stepping away from the sport before a potential showdown with Aspinall. He suggested that Jones might have requested a $30 million payout, anticipating the UFC would refuse, which ultimately led to the fight never happening.
”I think Jon Jones, after he beat Stipe Miocic, I think he was totally down to fight Tom Aspinall, and I think Jon Jones asked for $30 million thinking the UFC was not going to give that to him… we’ll never hear from Jones’ mouth on why he didn’t want to take the Tom fight… if Jones was like, ‘Dude I was not going to fight Tom Aspinall, he’s young, he’s athletic, he’s dangerous, I don’t want to risk my legacy.’ Perfect.”
—Demetrious Johnson, UFC Legend
Johnson also expressed concern about how Jones’ legacy might be perceived by casual fans due to unfinished business and the complexities of his career, which includes stripped titles and past controversial losses.
“That’s all I needed to hear. He doesn’t have to fight Tom Aspinall… But the fact that he retires, and there’s this cloud over his head where if you ask the casuals, the people who don’t follow the sport, they’re not going to know about the stripped belts, the loss to Matt Hamill.”
—Demetrious Johnson, UFC Legend
Tom Aspinall praises Ilia Topuria’s skills and potential as MMA’s next star
Tom Aspinall, the newly declared UFC heavyweight champion, recently commended Ilia Topuria, also known as ‘El Matador,’ for his exceptional fighting abilities. Aspinall identified Topuria as one of the rising talents destined to shape the future of mixed martial arts.
Aspinall highlighted Topuria’s striking power and grappling proficiency, applauding his seamless combination of skills and diverse heritage, which enriches the sport’s global appeal.
“He’s [Ilia Topuria] got devastating power. Great grappling as well, links everything together so well. Great for the sport – obviously, Georgian slash Spanish guy, so he’s mixing up nationalities. For me, he’s the future of MMA. He’s the next step.”
—Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight Champion
Michael Chandler provides update on UFC return plans following recent defeat
Former Bellator lightweight champion Michael Chandler revealed his tentative return timeline after his loss at UFC 314. Speaking at the Fanatics Fest in New York City, Chandler clarified he currently has no scheduled fights and likely will not compete again until later this year or possibly next year.
Chandler explained that he is taking time to focus on family and personal matters before resuming his fighting career.
“I’m enjoying the summer right now. Nothing is scheduled. No names on the table, no dates on the table. I told them, don’t call me till at least the fall, and obviously, we are in contact for some other business and promotional stuff. As far as actually stepping back in the octagon [is concerned,] probably not until the end of the year, if not next year.”
—Michael Chandler, Former Bellator Lightweight Champion
He also spoke about the importance of family during this break, mentioning the arrival of his newborn daughter and adjusting to life with a larger family and a new home in Tennessee.
“Luckily, I feel great. I took a little bit of time off, spending some time with the family. Just had a new daughter ten weeks ago. Spend some time with them, adjust to the new family dynamic that we have five of us now, our new home in Tennessee, and just go radio silent for a little bit, and then emerge and have a blast.”
—Michael Chandler, Former Bellator Lightweight Champion
These developments shed light on a pivotal moment within the MMA world as Jon Jones steps away, leaving questions about unfinished rivalries, while Tom Aspinall embraces the role of champion and mentor, celebrating emerging talents like Ilia Topuria. Meanwhile, Michael Chandler’s cautious timeline shows a fighter balancing career ambitions with personal priorities. The evolving landscape promises fresh storylines and intense competition as the UFC heavyweight division continues to grow in prominence.