The ongoing speculation surrounding the potential Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall fight continues to intensify as more information comes to light.
After a dominant victory over Stipe Miocic, Jones seemed to reconsider retirement, although his future in the sport still hangs in the balance. While some believe it may be a negotiating strategy, the UFC heavyweight champion appears uninterested in facing the current interim titleholder for a unification bout.
Instead, Jones is expressing interest in a super-fight with Alex Pereira, despite conflicting reports. He has once again hinted at the possibility of never facing Tom Aspinall.
“Sure, call me a duck for the next year,” Jones responded to a fan on X. “Eventually, Tom will lose in his next two or three fights. My legacy as the greatest MMA fighter will continue. That’s it.”
Sure, call me duck for the next year, eventually Tom will lose within the next two or three fights and my legacy will go on as the greatest MMA fight ever. End of story. 🤓 https://t.co/9XV8n92GAH
— Jonny Meat (@JonnyBones) November 29, 2024
Despite these statements, Jones has not officially announced his retirement and suggested that he would first vacate his title before leaving the sport.
While it’s unclear if his focus remains on a matchup with Alex Pereira, Jones appears disinterested in a potential showdown with Aspinall.
“I’d probably vacate the belt before officially retiring,” Jones stated. “Let’s see how my meeting with the UFC goes.”
I’d probably vacate the belt before officially retiring. Let’s see how my meeting with Ufc goes. https://t.co/jlG7xl6NYx
— Jonny Meat (@JonnyBones) November 29, 2024
Related: Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall update
Will Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall happen?
Whether it’s a tactic or genuine disinterest, there is still speculation about a potential matchup between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall for the undisputed title.
Despite not having insider information, UFC commentator Jon Anik believes the highly-anticipated fight will come to fruition.
If an agreement cannot be reached, it is likely that Jones will relinquish his title, paving the way for Aspinall to be crowned the heavyweight champion.