Jon Jones’ Underground Legacy: His Continuous Avoidance of Tom Aspinall Proves He Doesn’t Deserve the Championship Belt

Jon Jones’ Legacy Under Scrutiny

Jon Jones is often considered one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. However, his recent actions—or lack thereof—have sparked controversy among fight fans and analysts. His continuous avoidance of Tom Aspinall has raised questions about whether he truly deserves the UFC Heavyweight Championship or if he’s merely coasting on past achievements. With growing frustration in the MMA community, the question remains: is Jones avoiding real competition?

Why Fans Believe Jones Is Dodging Tom Aspinall

Tom Aspinall has emerged as one of the most dangerous and promising heavyweights in the UFC. His explosive fighting style, well-rounded skillset, and dominant performances have made him a clear contender for the heavyweight belt. Yet, despite Aspinall’s rise, Jones has consistently shown a lack of urgency to face him. Here’s why fans think Jones is avoiding the fight:

1. Unconvincing Injury Layoffs

Jon Jones has been sidelined with injuries, delaying title defenses and high-profile matchups. While injuries are a part of any fighter’s career, skeptics argue that Jones strategically uses them to avoid dangerous opponents like Aspinall. The lack of transparency surrounding his recovery process has only fueled speculation that he is unwilling to risk his legacy against an elite challenger.

2. Cherry-Picking Opponents

Since moving up to heavyweight, Jones has carefully selected his fights. While his dominant victory over Ciryl Gane was impressive, fans expected him to take on a more active role in defending his belt. Instead, he seems to be prioritizing legacy fights—such as his rumored bout with Stipe Miocic—rather than facing hungry, in-prime challengers like Aspinall.

3. Silence from UFC and Jones

The UFC has been relatively quiet about a potential Jones vs. Aspinall showdown. Meanwhile, Jones himself has not addressed the possibility of fighting Aspinall in a meaningful way. His silence speaks volumes, leaving fans to wonder if he is deliberately avoiding the matchup.

Jon Jones’ Championship Belt Is Losing Value

The UFC Heavyweight Championship is meant to represent the best fighter in the world, but Jones’ lack of title defenses against worthy contenders is damaging its prestige. Historically, great champions like Cain Velasquez, Stipe Miocic, and Daniel Cormier defended their titles against the best available competition. Jones, on the other hand, has yet to prove his dominance in the heavyweight division by facing elite challengers back-to-back.

1. A Champion Who Doesn’t Defend

Jones’ last fight was in March 2023, and there has been no concrete plan for his return. Unlike previous champions who took on all comers, Jones seems content to hold the belt hostage, waiting for a lucrative, low-risk fight instead of taking on real challengers like Aspinall.

2. Fans Are Losing Interest

The UFC thrives on high-stakes matchups, and fans want to see the best fight the best. However, Jones’ prolonged inactivity and reluctance to face dangerous opponents have left many disillusioned. The longer he waits, the more his reputation suffers, and the more Aspinall’s claim to the throne grows stronger.

3. Is the UFC Protecting Jones?

Dana White and the UFC have historically favored certain fighters for financial reasons. Some believe that Jones is being protected because a loss to Aspinall could damage his GOAT status. The UFC may prefer to book “legacy fights” rather than risk putting him against a young, dangerous opponent who could dethrone him.

Tom Aspinall Deserves His Shot

If there’s one thing the UFC prides itself on, it’s rewarding fighters who earn their title shots. Tom Aspinall has done just that. Here’s why he deserves to fight Jon Jones for the heavyweight title:

1. Dominant Performances Against Top Fighters

Aspinall has been on a tear through the heavyweight division, finishing opponents in spectacular fashion. His well-rounded skill set—featuring knockout power, elite grappling, and high fight IQ—makes him one of the most dangerous challengers in the sport today.

2. A Legitimate Threat to Jones

Unlike some of Jones’ past opponents, Aspinall presents a real challenge. He possesses the athleticism, power, and technical ability to push Jones to his limits. Many believe he could be the fighter to end Jones’ reign before it ever truly begins.

3. The Fans Demand It

The MMA community is tired of waiting for the best fights to happen. Fans have been vocal in their desire to see Aspinall challenge Jones, and the UFC risks alienating its audience if it continues to delay this inevitable clash.

What’s Next for Jon Jones?

If Jones wants to truly cement his legacy as the greatest fighter of all time, he must take on all challengers—including Tom Aspinall. Here are his options moving forward:

1. Accept the Aspinall Fight and Prove the Doubters Wrong

The best way for Jones to silence critics is to step into the Octagon and face Aspinall head-on. A victory would remove any doubts about his willingness to take on real threats and would solidify his status as the undisputed heavyweight king.

2. Continue Avoiding Aspinall and Damage His Reputation

If Jones keeps dodging Aspinall, his legacy will suffer. Fans and analysts will continue questioning his credibility, and his championship reign will be seen as illegitimate. At some point, he will have to face the music—or vacate the belt.

3. Vacate the Belt and Retire (Again)

Jones could opt to walk away from the sport, but doing so without facing Aspinall would leave a permanent stain on his career. True champions don’t run from challenges; they embrace them.

Conclusion: Jones vs. Aspinall Must Happen

Jon Jones may be a legend, but his refusal to fight Tom Aspinall is undermining his claim as the best heavyweight in the world. If he wants to be remembered as the greatest, he must defend his title against the most deserving contender. Fans are sick of waiting, and it’s time for the UFC to make the fight happen. The question now is: will Jones rise to the occasion, or will he continue living off past glory?