UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones seems to downplay the fame of interim titleholder Tom Aspinall, referring to him as “annoying” and suggesting he would rather vacate his championship than fight him. This sentiment surfaced after Jones successfully defended his title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, winning via third-round TKO.
However, UFC CEO Dana White appears to have a different perspective. He envisions a potential unification bout between Jones and Aspinall as a monumental event in UFC history, proclaiming it could be “the biggest heavyweight fight ever” and likely the largest fight the UFC has ever hosted. While specifics about the fight’s scale remain to be clarified, White’s confidence provides excitement for fans eager to witness such a showdown.
Despite Jones’ reluctance, which he claims would only change if he was offered substantial financial incentives, the interest from White indicates a possible pathway to negotiations. The odds for a Jones vs. Aspinall match currently lean slightly in Jones’ favor, marking a rare instance of him being viewed as an underdog since 2009.
White has consistently backed Jones throughout his career, praising his tactical skill and fight intelligence. He likens Jones’ strategy in the octagon to the brilliance of a visionary like Elon Musk, highlighting a fascinating dynamic for how a match against Aspinall might unfold.
In summary, while Jones appears firm in his current stance against fighting Aspinall, Dana White’s optimism for the matchup suggests that fans should remain hopeful for an eventual showdown between the two fighters. The anticipation surrounding this potential fight continues to build, showcasing the unpredictable nature of MMA and the excitement it generates in its fanbase.