Why Jon Jones Needs To Fight Tom Aspinall
Why Jon Jones Needs To Fight Tom Aspinall
By Tim Burke November 13, 2024 16:25
The most significant heavyweight fight in UFC history between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic is mere days away. Unfortunately for the UFC, the legacy-defining fight between two all-time greats has been clouded with controversy.
Despite being considered the greatest MMA fighter in history, Jon Jones is the most controversial figure in the UFC due to his career filled with cheating scandals and legal troubles. One other thing looms large over Jon Jones’s legacy, and that is Tom Aspinall.
The fans do not want to see Jon Jones fight Stipe Miocic. They want to see him fight Tom Aspinall.
“For me, this is far from an undisputed title fight; this is the most disputed title you can possibly get… Let’s be honest, these are two old farts fighting each other for the title and occupying it.” Tom Aspinall stated on his YouTube channel. A large portion of MMA fans agree.
Unfortunately, Jon Jones disagrees. Jones vs Aspinall would never happen if Jon Jones had been a man of his word.
“He’s just an asshole…bro; if you had a little bit more respect, maybe we could’ve worked something out. I just don’t even want to do business with him.” Jones stated at a press conference promoting UFC 309.
Aspinall has been persistent in his belief that he deserves to fight Jon Jones. Why? Because that's what the rules state. Aspinall is only the second fighter in the UFC's history to defend his interim belt successfully.
Tradition states that when the champion returns to action, he faces the interim champion. Jon Jones is breaking the rules. He has been the most inactive champion in UFC history, and he is losing his GOAT status in the eyes of MMA fans.
“I’m not gambling my legacy for what is exciting.” Jon Jones stated that when asked why he was not fighting for the interim champion.
Tom Aspinall responded on social media by criticizing Jon Jones's comments.
“Jon, if you’re not into gambling your legacy, that sounds like you’re scared of losing against me,” Aspinall stated in a social media video.
Despite Jon Jones's comments, I think this sells the fight. His name is in the headlines; he is playing the heel and doing a terrific job. Jon Jones is not afraid of anyone. He is selling the fight between him and Aspinall, creating more emotion and anticipation among fans.
"Heel Jon is here. Love it." Ariel Helwani posted on X in reaction to Jones's comments about not wanting to do business with Aspinall.
At the end of the day, Jon Jones does not decide who he fights; the UFC does. That is what has made UFC so successful. They make the rules. Fighters do not avoid each other in the UFC. The UFC will not allow Jon Jones to duck Tom Aspinall after UFC 309.
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