Interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, like many others, is eager for definitive answers about his next fight.
While patiently waiting for a potential unification bout against heavyweight king Jon Jones, Aspinall, 31, expresses weariness with constant questions about the matchup, emphasizing his lack of control over the situation. He provided a detailed update, clearly stating that it’s now up to Jones to decide if he will accept the fight.
“Many people know me primarily for discussions about Jon Jones, which is unfortunate given my UFC accomplishments,” Aspinall admitted on his YouTube channel. “I’ve intentionally avoided media and Jones-related talks because, frankly, I’m tired of it myself. However, updates are necessary. I’ve seen numerous online articles with inaccurate information. It’s simply not true.”
“Currently, I’ve communicated with the UFC multiple times about this fight. I am actively pursuing it. I want this fight. I’ve publicly stated my desire for it and reiterated to the UFC that I want it, asking about the timeline. I am the most eager party involved. The hold-up is on his side. That’s the honest truth.”
Jones last competed in November, defeating former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic in what was described as Miocic’s retirement fight. Subsequently, Jones hinted at future possibilities, including a fight against current UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, who has been dominant in the 205-pound division.
UFC CEO Dana White has confidently stated that a deal for Aspinall versus Jones in 2025 will eventually be reached, although specifics regarding the date or venue remain undisclosed.
Aspinall confirms he has accepted the fight and informed the UFC of his willingness to compete on any date or location, provided the undisputed title is at stake.
“The UFC genuinely wants this fight to happen,” Aspinall stated. “They’ve assured me of that. As I’ve said, this is potentially one of the biggest fights in MMA right now, and everyone recognizes that. The question is whether he feels financially secure enough to take the risk of fighting me. That’s the current situation.”
“To my understanding, the decision rests entirely with Jon Jones and his team. Because I am ready. The UFC is ready. They consistently assure me of their strong desire to make this fight happen whenever I speak with them. They say, ‘We are working as hard as we can on the fight.’ I am simply awaiting a date.”
Adding a new dimension to the situation, Aspinall mentioned that if Jones is unwilling to face him or defend his heavyweight title, he is prepared to move on.
Aspinall’s primary goal is to become the undisputed UFC champion. Whether that path involves Jones or other contenders like Ciryl Gane or Jailton Almeida, he is ready to sign a contract immediately.
“To be honest, it’s not just about the Jon Jones fight; I am looking to fight,” Aspinall clarified. “I am in peak condition. I have been training diligently since before Christmas, with twice-daily gym sessions, a strict diet, and sparring. I have international training partners here. I am ready to fight anyone. However, the UFC’s preference is to arrange the fight with Jon. Currently, it seems to be a matter of financial considerations, though I’m uncertain. I am simply awaiting the call and am 100 percent prepared to compete.”
“One thing I want to make absolutely clear: I am only fighting for the undisputed title. That is my sole condition. I will fight any opponent. My record and any promoter I’ve worked with, in the UFC or elsewhere, will confirm that I have never declined a fight in my career. I won’t start now. It’s important to understand that I have earned the right to fight for the undisputed title in the UFC. I believe I am the best heavyweight in the world and simply want the opportunity to prove it.”
Despite his eagerness to fight sooner, Aspinall understands the UFC’s desire to make the Jones fight, recognizing its significance and financial potential for the company.
Having defeated most of the top 10 ranked heavyweights, Aspinall acknowledges his limited options but emphasizes that he is not the one hindering the division’s progress.
“I am not refusing any fights,” Aspinall stated. “I am not being demanding or seeking more money. I am here to provide excitement, do what I love, and finish fights, which is my absolute desire. Currently, I am not the one causing delays in this division. Let’s get things moving.”
“Right now, the hold-up is not on my part. I want to fight. My focus is on fighting for the undisputed heavyweight title because I’ve already defeated most of the top 10 heavyweights in the first round. Anyone else I haven’t faced, I am willing to step in and take them out as well.”
It remains uncertain how long negotiations will continue before the UFC considers alternative plans. Aspinall hopes Jones makes a prompt decision, allowing him to plan the remainder of 2025.
“Remember my previous statement that I would retire Jon Jones without even fighting him?” Aspinall recalled. “That’s something I said.”
“Jon, let’s make it happen. If you’re willing, you won’t need to ask me twice. If not, I’ll fight someone else for the undisputed belt. I am happy to fight anyone, anytime, anywhere – it doesn’t matter. I am ready to go.”
