
Jon Jones: The Unexpected Power Player in the Heavyweight Showdown with Tom Aspinall
2025-06-03
Author: Ming
UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones may be taking a break, but it looks like he’s having the time of his life away from the Octagon! Fans are buzzing with frustration as the wait for a potential showdown with Tom Aspinall drags on.
While Aspinall seems to be moving forward with his career rather than waiting for Jones, many supporters are rallying behind the interim champion, calling for Jones to be stripped of his title. In fact, Aspinall boldly suggested that Jones may already be retired.
Former UFC champion Michael Bisping, however, remains hopeful that the anticipated fight will still happen, a sentiment not echoed by Jones himself or his camp.
Chael Sonnen Weighs In: Jones Thriving in New Power Dynamics
UFC legend Chael Sonnen, who has faced Jones in the past, shares a unique perspective, suggesting that Jones is relishing his newfound influential position in the UFC landscape.
Sonnen believes that with the prospect of fighting Tom Aspinall, Jones is finally enjoying being in the driver's seat—something new for him. “Any human given power is rarely going to shy away from wielding it,” he stated in an exclusive interview with Bloody Elbow.
Despite his impressive achievements, Sonnen noted that Jones has never been a major financial draw for the UFC. "You could walk up to the window on fight day and buy a ticket to see Jon. He’s never sold out arenas or set merchandise records," he explained, adding that the current scenario could change that.
Jones: The Kingmaker in Heavyweight Battles
According to Sonnen, Jones now has the upper hand, with both the UFC and Aspinall eager to make this blockbuster fight happen. For the first time, he’s facing an opponent that fans are genuinely excited about—an opponent who might even be considered the betting favorite.
"This is a new dynamic: a younger fighter, heavier by 30 to 40 pounds, who holds the interim title and whom fans want to see Jones face. For the first time, he’s in a position where he can call the shots," Sonnen elaborated.
The Final Countdown: Will Jones Answer the Call?
While many speculate about Jones's silence, Sonnen believes there’s no need for alarm. He’s convinced that Jones isn’t stalling the fight on purpose.
“While Jon may appear to be enjoying this moment, I don’t think he’s trying to avoid the fight. When the time is right, he’ll step back into the Octagon to unify those heavyweight titles. He’s simply having fun with fans and waiting for the call to action,” Sonnen concluded.
Will Jon Jones take the plunge and face Tom Aspinall? The anticipation is palpable as the saga continues!