Jon Jones, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion, may have inadvertently revealed his plans for returning to the Octagon and how it affects the division.
For almost two years, fans, pundits, and fellow fighters have eagerly awaited the UFC to announce a much-anticipated heavyweight showdown. However, the wait continues.
As summer approaches, it appears that Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall are still far from finalizing terms for a heavyweight title unification bout. Following his successful title defense at UFC 309, Jones reportedly shifted his focus to contract negotiations with UFC President Dana White and the matchmakers, aiming to make the fight with Aspinall a reality.
UFC enthusiasts have grown increasingly frustrated with Jones`s extended period of inactivity, with some critics accusing him of `holding the belt hostage.` Consequently, calls for the UFC to strip Jones of his championship have become more frequent in recent weeks.
Jones`s Subtle Hint and Interaction with Aspinall
Tom Aspinall recently shared the significant mental toll that the prolonged uncertainty surrounding a fight with Jones has taken on him. He admitted that this current waiting period has been even more challenging than his recovery from a severe leg injury sustained in 2022.
Amidst the ongoing discussions about facing Aspinall, Jones has been spending time overseas. He was initially slated to participate in a spin-off of The Ultimate Fighter reality series in Thailand, where he would face Nate Diaz. However, Diaz`s abrupt departure following a physical altercation on set led to the cancellation of filming.
In the meantime, Jones hosted what was described as the `biggest seminar in Bangtao history` at the Bangtao Muay Thai MMA gym in Thailand this past week. The gym and Jones shared video footage on Instagram showcasing the heavyweight champion instructing enthusiastic fight fans of all ages, eager to absorb MMA techniques.
Following the seminar, an Instagram follower sarcastically commented, asking Jones when fans could expect to witness his `famous eyepoke` again. The UFC legend responded with a brief, two-word comment regarding his fighting future.
His concise reply is unlikely to bring good news to fight fans.
“Next year,” Jones answered.
If Jones`s comment truly indicates a return to the Octagon sometime in 2026, it would place the UFC`s heavyweight division in a peculiar state, particularly for Tom Aspinall, who holds the interim title. Should Jones ultimately vacate his undisputed championship, Aspinall would likely contend for the undisputed belt against another top contender. Jones might then potentially face the winner upon his eventual comeback.
Aspinall currently holds the distinction of being the UFC`s longest-reigning interim champion. He earned this title by knocking out Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 295 and successfully defended it at UFC 304 last July, securing a swift first-round finish against Curtis Blaydes.
With Jones`s return timeline remaining uncertain, potential matchups between Aspinall and other highly-ranked heavyweights like Ciryl Gane or Alexander Volkov appear to be the next logical steps. Volkov recently voiced his displeasure with the UFC`s handling of Jones`s extended break, suggesting the champion is receiving favorable treatment despite his inactivity.
Surging Support for Petition to Strip Jon Jones
A petition on Change.org calling for the UFC to strip Jon Jones of his heavyweight title has gained significant momentum this week. As of the time of writing, the petition has garnered over 150,000 signatures. This has even prompted a counter-effort from a group of Jones`s dedicated supporters.
Jones and Aspinall recently exchanged words on social media while Jones was in Thailand. After Jones seemingly mocked Aspinall`s growing fanbase in the UK, Aspinall reiterated his claims that Jones is `ducking` him, suggesting the legendary fighter enjoy his retirement.
Currently, UFC President Dana White and the matchmakers have not provided a definitive timeline for the next undisputed heavyweight title fight. White recently advised fans to `relax` when questioned about the status of the potential Jones vs. Aspinall bout.
Gareth Pendleton