Tom Aspinall, the newly crowned undisputed UFC heavyweight champion, remains focused on his reign despite ongoing discussions around Jon Jones’ potential comeback. Following Jones’ retirement, Aspinall was promoted to undisputed champion and is preparing for his upcoming title defenses without immediate concern over Jones’ return, although he acknowledges the possibility of facing Jones should he choose to compete again.
Aspinall’s Readiness and Respect for Possible Jones Return
Before becoming undisputed champion, Aspinall held the interim heavyweight title and defended it successfully while anticipating a unification fight with Jones, which never took place as Jones did not agree to the bout. Aspinall keeps a level-headed approach to the situation, prioritizing his position as the top fighter in his division over any personal rivalry with Jones. He remains open to the idea that Jones could return and receive a direct shot at the title.
I’m sure with where he’s at he can jump the queue anytime he wants,
Aspinall told The Diary Of A CEO.
This time of year, down the line, we’ll have another three or four contenders knocking on for a title shot, I’m sure, but anytime someone like him wants to step up and say, ‘Listen, I want to fight again,’ they’re going to get an immediate title shot so I’m never going to count that out.
I’m in a spot in my career where there’s not all that much footage out there on me. Maybe he sees something on me in the next few fights and he thinks, ‘You know what? I can beat this guy. I’m going to come back and beat him.’ So mentally, I’m never counting that out. I think the fight could always pop back up and come back around on me, so that’s something that I would obviously accept.
Jones’ Legacy and Impact on MMA Heavyweight Division
Jon Jones secured the undisputed heavyweight title in 2023 after defeating Ciryl Gane for a belt left vacant by Francis Ngannou. Jones successfully defended his heavyweight crown against Stipe Miocic before retiring. While Jones made history with his heavyweight achievements, he is primarily remembered for his dominant run at light heavyweight. He became UFC’s youngest champion at 23 after beating Mauricio Rua at UFC 128, then defending the title 13 consecutive times with no true defeat in the cage, except for a disqualification against Matt Hamill due to illegal strikes.
Despite his remarkable career, Jones faced significant challenges outside the octagon, including legal problems and a voided title win at UFC 214 related to performance-enhancing drugs. Nevertheless, his overall record and dominance across weight classes have solidified his legacy as one of MMA’s greatest fighters.
Aspinall Sends Respectful Message to Jon Jones
When asked if he had any message for Jones, Aspinall expressed respect and humility, acknowledging the legend’s career accomplishments.
I think he’s had an amazing career and I think he should enjoy the rest of his life,
Aspinall commented.
If he truly feels like he’s done enough, which he keeps saying that he does, he will be at peace. He doesn’t need me or anybody else to tell him how good he’s done. He’ll know it himself, so I hope that he’s enjoying his life, he’s enjoying his family, and he’s celebrating his career because it’s been amazing.
Upcoming Title Defenses and Potential Opponents for Aspinall
With Jones essentially out of the spotlight for now, Aspinall is setting his sights on future opponents within the heavyweight division. Although there is no dominant challenger demanding a title shot at the moment, Aspinall has identified several contenders he is interested in facing.
I’ve actually fought a lot of the top 10,
Aspinall shared.
One of the guys I’ve not fought is Ciryl Gane. I was actually chasing that fight a few times before. He was ducking and diving around himself a little bit, so he is due a little bit of a beating off me. I look forward to that.
A couple more guys down the rankings, Jailton Almeida I’ve not fought, there’s a guy I’ve already beat called Alexander Volkov who’s doing really well for himself as well, so who knows? You never know in the heavyweight division. There’s a couple of up-and-coming guys who I’ve not mentioned as well, so there’s some good fights to be made over the next couple of years for sure.
Aspinall’s Plans Moving Forward After Missed Unification Bout
Over the previous two years, Aspinall pursued a unification bout with Jones, but Jones’ injury and subsequent decision to fight Miocic instead prevented that matchup. Aspinall’s defense against Curtis Blaydes proceeded while Jones declined further negotiations for a fight with the British heavyweight.
Determined to make the most of his championship reign, Aspinall aims to accelerate his activity in 2025 by defending his belt multiple times to compensate for the lost opportunities.
I’m going to be fighting hopefully twice this year,
Aspinall revealed.
That’s my plan, at least. I think I’ve wasted enough time now. We’re looking to get a fight booked quick and it’s looking like it’s going to be pretty soon anyway. Then hopefully if everything goes well in the first one, I’m uninjured, which is it’s easier said than done getting through a fight with a guy my size and coming out with no injuries, but if I can do that, I would like to fight at the end of the year as well. That would be perfect.
Implications for the Heavyweight Division and Future Outlook
As Jon Jones’ future in the UFC remains uncertain, Tom Aspinall stands ready to solidify his reign as the undisputed heavyweight champion. With a clear mindset focused on upcoming challengers like Ciryl Gane and Jailton Almeida, Aspinall is poised to shape the heavyweight landscape in the coming years. A potential Jones return would create an immediate title clash, but until then, Aspinall plans to maintain momentum by staying active and continuing to build his legacy.