The recent fall of Alex Pereira at UFC 313 in Las Vegas sparked a flurry of questions about the future of another UFC superstar, Jon Jones. The heavyweight champion had left his retirement plans uncertain after knocking out Stipe Miocic last November. Jones had expressed interest in facing ‘Poatan’, but UFC President Dana White presented him with only two options: accept a fight against Tom Aspinall or hang up his gloves for good.
As it stands, the only viable option for Jones to continue his career is a bout against the English fighter, which is nearing confirmation. “Jon Jones definitely wants the fight,” White told the media. “We’re now working on when and where.” The only lingering doubt was whether the best fighter in UFC history would take on this challenging opponent, but it seems Jones has given the green light.
Dana White, the UFC chief, confidently stated, “I’m sure this fight will happen.”
Despite nothing being officially confirmed, White ended the press conference on a positive note, reiterating his confidence in the fight’s likelihood. Jones still has the internal drive that has propelled him to dominate both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions since his debut in 2008. As for Aspinall, he will finally see his efforts to get the champion’s attention pay off, especially after winning the interim title in 2023.
Tom Aspinall’s Long-Awaited Opportunity
After facing numerous setbacks, Aspinall had even gone as far as saying he would be the one to retire Jones without needing to fight him. He provoked Jones in videos and tried every tactic, but the response from ‘Bones’ was always indifference. As a result, in 2024, Aspinall had to defend his interim title against Curtis Blaydes while waiting for the outcome of Jones’ fight against Stipe Miocic. After months of uncertainty, it appears that fans will finally get the dream fight they’ve been craving.
If the fight does happen, it will instantly become one of the most significant bouts in history. Jones has been and remains the most dominant champion in the UFC. Meanwhile, Tom is the most feared heavyweight in recent years, with some experts tipping him to defeat an almost invincible type. The second half of 2025 is shaping up to be exciting, with confirmed fights like Poirier’s retirement bout, a potential Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev matchup, rumors of a Topuria vs Makhachev fight, and now this titanic clash on the verge of being confirmed.
As the MMA world waits with bated breath for the official announcement, one thing is certain – the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between two of the sport’s greatest talents. With Jones’ legacy and Aspinall’s reputation on the line, this fight has all the ingredients to be an instant classic. The question on everyone’s mind is: can Aspinall dethrone the legendary Jones, or will ‘Bones’ continue his reign as the undisputed king of the heavyweight division? Only time will tell, but for now, the excitement is palpable.