Since winning the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295, Tom Aspinall has been persistently calling out Jones for a unification bout. However, Jon Jones has repeatedly side-stepped this potential matchup, instead choosing to defend his title against former champion Stipe Miocic. What might seem like a frustrating situation to some, Aspinall views it as a masterclass in promotional strategy.
During a recent TNT Sports YouTube segment, Aspinall offered a surprisingly positive perspective on Jones’ tactics. Instead of expressing frustration, he praised ‘Bones’ for his sophisticated approach to fight promotion. Most fighters would simply deflect questions about potential matchups, but the heavyweight champion has been deliberately stoking the fires of anticipation.
“Jon immediately starts saying, ‘No, I don’t want to fight Tom,’ which the easiest thing in the world would be, ‘I’m gonna talk about it after Saturday. I’m not talking about it this week,’ but he kept bringing that into the conversation, and that is high-level business, really high level.”
Tom Aspinall highlighted a nuanced communication strategy that most fighters overlook. Typically, athletes might say something generic to sidestep the question. Jon Jones, however, has consistently and directly addressed the potential fight with Aspinall.
Adding another layer of complexity, Jon Jones had even hinted at potential super fights or retirement, further amplifying the intrigue around his future. UFC CEO Dana White has since confirmed that Aspinall is likely Jones’ next opponent, turning this into an interesting storyline.
Francis Ngannou Backs Jon Jones’ Decision Not To Fight Tom Aspinall
Former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou recently threw his perspective into this high-stakes drama. He believes Jones has little to gain from an immediate fight with Tom Aspinall. According to Ngannou, the interim champion needs this fight far more than Jones does. It’s a brutally honest assessment that cuts through the usual fight promotion noise.
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The financial aspect looms large in this potential matchup. Jon Jones, already a legendary fighter, seems more interested in lucrative opportunities that offer both challenge and substantial paychecks. His initial preference was to face Alex Pereira, though UFC CEO Dana White quickly dismissed that possibility due to significant size differences.
Tom Aspinall, meanwhile, is hungry for validation. With an impressive average fight time of just over two minutes across his UFC career, he’s created a reputation for explosive, unpredictable performances. He’s even suggested that his spontaneous fighting style makes him a “massive question mark” against which Jones can’t easily strategize.
Also Read: Tom Aspinall Accuses Jon Jones Of Playing Negotiation Games Despite Being Ready For The Fight
