Aspinall Ascends as Jones-Miocic Reschedule Looms
Tom Aspinall has proven himself a formidable force in the UFC heavyweight division, recently securing a decisive knockout victory over Sergei Pavlovich to claim the interim title. The British fighter's commanding performance against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 has further solidified his standing among the elite of the heavyweight ranks.
The anticipated bout between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, originally scheduled for UFC 295 on November 11, 2023, has been postponed. Jones was forced to withdraw due to an injury, resulting in Miocic being pulled from the card as well. Current rumors indicate that the fight might be rescheduled for UFC 309 on November 16, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the clash between the two legends.
Amidst the shake-up, Aspinall has not shied away from voicing his criticism of Jones' lifestyle and readiness to compete. Aspinall remarked, "Let's be honest, and since I won that fight, he's gone completely quiet. He'll continue to go completely quiet about me until he retires. Because there's no way on Earth that he's going to fight me. Not a chance. I will retire Jon Jones without even fighting him."
Aspinall's frustration is palpable as he challenges the notion that Jones would step into the octagon with him. "I challenge anybody watching this interview to go and find the statement, quote, a video where Jon Jones is saying that he'll fight me after he's fought Stipe. It doesn't exist," he asserted. Aspinall is confident in his current form and believes he deserves recognition as the top heavyweight, especially considering the recent state of Jones and Miocic.
"They don't f---ing deserve to be fighting for the heavyweight title. Them guys are not the top of the heavyweight division right now. Dana White and everybody else can say whatever they want, them guys aren't the best heavyweights in the world right now," Aspinall stated unequivocally.
Jones, now 37, has captured the imagination and respect of MMA fans throughout his illustrious career. Despite Aspinall's criticisms, Jones remains focused on ending his career on a high note. "I'm 37 years old now, I've kicked everyone's ass. My job is to finish strong and make an amazing movie. Go join Tom Brady, Floyd Mayweather and all the other retired bad asses," Jones remarked. He is determined to finish his career with a legacy that befits a champion.
The dynamic between Aspinall and Jones also highlights a broader narrative within the UFC heavyweight division. Aspinall claims, "I'm the guy at heavyweight, not him -- me. I want to be recognized as the best. I've got the real belt. I'm the one defending. He's defending against a 42-year-old Stipe Miocic with a million miles on the clock. If you want to be the real guy, you have to fight me." Aspinall's comments reflect his belief that he, not Jones or Miocic, holds supremacy in the division.
Jones responded to the growing criticism, emphasizing the advantages of his current standing. "Maybe Tom will go on and beat Stipe's record one day, right now I'm focusing on goat things. The beautiful thing about being in my position is I'm not defined by one fight. Most of you grew up watching me win," Jones explained. His focus remains steadfast on cementing his legacy and not being swayed by fights that do not align with his retirement plans.
As UFC fans look forward to the rescheduled bout between Jones and Miocic, the narrative around Aspinall’s rise and Jones’ legacy continues to develop. How Aspinall’s challenges and criticism will shape the future of the heavyweight division remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the landscape of UFC heavyweights is evolving, with new contenders like Aspinall pushing the boundaries and the old guard looking to secure their places in history.