UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones has once again publicly declared his intention to fight soon, assuring his supporters that his career narrative is far from over. However, this announcement is met with considerable skepticism from the MMA community. Fans widely believe Jones is deliberately avoiding a potential clash with interim champion Tom Aspinall. This perception stems from Jones`s inactivity since his last fight in November against the retiring Stipe Miocic, coupled with the lack of any scheduled bouts on his part, while Aspinall awaits an opponent for 2025. The situation has led to irritation among many, who suspect a joint effort between Jones and the UFC to bypass what could be one of the biggest fights in current MMA.
Fan reactions to Jones`s latest statements highlight the prevalent frustration and doubt surrounding his return timeline and opponent choice.
Beyond the heavyweight title picture, the week`s MMA news included other notable events. Highly-touted prospect Bo Nickal suffered an unexpected and decisive defeat at UFC Des Moines. Facing former ONE two-division champion Reinier de Ridder, Nickal was thoroughly out-grappled and subsequently finished with striking. This performance was a significant setback for the promising wrestler and generated substantial discussion and reaction from surprised fans.
Lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett`s significant weight changes between fights remain a consistent topic of conversation and concern among fans.
In the world of sports cinema, anticipation is building for Dwayne Johnson`s new film, “The Smashing Machine.” Directed by Benny Safdie, the movie is a biopic centered on the life of former MMA fighter Mark Kerr. The project is generating buzz as it heads towards awards season consideration.
Finally, the article touches upon the trend of celebrity crossover bouts involving MMA fighters. The sentiment among fans appears largely negative, with many expressing disinterest in seeing non-professional fighters participating in combat sports against established athletes.
Murray Blackwood