UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has disclosed that insiders close to Jon Jones indicated the former light heavyweight champion had no plans to face him in the octagon. This revelation clarifies why the anticipated matchup between Aspinall and Jones never materialized. Aspinall secured the undisputed heavyweight title after Jones announced his retirement from mixed martial arts, ending a buildup that saw the British fighter patiently await a title unification showdown.
During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Aspinall explained that his knowledge came from people in Jones’ environment, including those who were in Thailand at the same time as Jones. Aspinall said he recognized Jones’ behavior outside competition as a sign that the fight was unlikely to happen soon.
“I know people who have been out in Thailand at similar times that [Jon Jones] was there. I know people who are around his circle, and I know that from the behavior that he’s doing outside the octagon, that he’s not going to fight anytime soon.”
—Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight Champion
Jon Jones Addresses Fight Rumors and Retirement Status
Jon Jones responded publicly to contradict claims made by UFC CEO Dana White, who had suggested that a fight against Tom Aspinall was agreed upon. Jones clarified on social media that the matchup was never finalized. He also stated he retired from MMA in November 2024, although others encouraged him to reconsider his decision.
Jones explained that while negotiations did begin, the fight was never confirmed and he chose to stay quiet about the situation as he enjoyed his retirement.
“If the fight was done, trust me, I would be fighting. Did we start negotiating at one point? Yes, but if I was never done. My job at the time was to sit back and be quiet about it, and that’s exactly what I did. I was enjoying my life. That should’ve been obvious to you guys.”
—Jon Jones, Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
He further revealed the pressure he faced to reconsider his retirement.
“I was told 1000 times to just reconsider and give it more time. That’s the truth.”
—Jon Jones, Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
Implications for the Heavyweight Division Going Forward
Tom Aspinall’s confirmation that Jon Jones was unlikely to fight him sheds light on the heavyweight division’s recent developments and the challenges faced in arranging marquee bouts. With Jones officially retired and Aspinall having secured the undisputed championship, the UFC heavyweight landscape now turns to Aspinall’s reign and potential new challengers. Jones’ retirement signals a major shift, leaving Aspinall as the clear dominant force awaiting the next contender.