Recently, Tom Aspinall made some comments suggesting that Jon Jones was avoiding fighting him. In response, Jones took to social media to clarify his stance. Jones explained that a video resurfaced in which he mentioned that after facing Stipe, Francis was the only fight he was interested in. However, Jones emphasized that the video was recorded over a year ago, before his injury and before an interim champion was crowned. He also stated that he had already voiced his disinterest in facing random opponents.
There has been significant controversy surrounding the UFC’s heavyweight division in the past year. Jon Jones, the current UFC heavyweight champion, has yet to defend his title since winning it from Francis Ngannou. Although he was scheduled to return against Stipe Miocic last November, an injury sidelined Jones, delaying his comeback. Meanwhile, Aspinall claimed the UFC interim title and successfully defended it in his recent fights.
Despite Aspinall holding the interim title, Jones is not expected to unify the belts with him in his return to competition. The UFC seems determined to set up a matchup between Jones and Miocic, scheduled for November. Jones made it clear that he has a plan in place and is not willing to deviate from it. He mentioned that he jumps for no one and questioned the need for multiple belts and breaking his own records repeatedly.
Jones acknowledged that there are fighters worldwide who believe they can defeat him. He encouraged Aspinall to focus on winning more fights and building a greater legacy for himself. Despite the ongoing speculation and criticism surrounding his lack of title defenses, Jones remains resolute in his approach. He emphasized that at 37 years old, he has already proven himself by defeating numerous opponents, and now his goal is to finish strong and leave a lasting legacy.
The question of whether Jon Jones is avoiding a fight with Tom Aspinall remains unanswered. While Aspinall has expressed his eagerness to face Jones, the current plans in the UFC heavyweight division suggest that a matchup between the two may not be imminent. Jones’ response to the criticism and speculation indicates that he is focused on his own goals and is not swayed by external pressures. Only time will tell if a fight between Jones and Aspinall will come to fruition, but for now, both fighters seem determined to pursue their own paths in the sport.