“Future Legend” – Jon Jones’ Former Rival Backs Tom Aspinall for Heavyweight Greatness

The UFC heavyweight division is undergoing a dramatic shift, and Tom Aspinall has emerged as the face of the future. After capturing the interim heavyweight title in emphatic fashion, Aspinall has been drawing praise from across the MMA world. But one endorsement stands out—a former rival of Jon Jones, the reigning champion, has boldly declared Tom Aspinall a “future legend” in the making.

This declaration doesn’t just come from a random analyst or fan; it comes from someone who knows what it takes to stand across the Octagon from the very best. The praise adds significant weight to Aspinall’s growing reputation as a legitimate threat to Jon Jones’ heavyweight dominance.

Who called Tom Aspinall a ‘future legend’?

The compliment came from Thiago Santos, a man who gave Jon Jones one of the toughest fights of his career at UFC 239. Despite suffering major knee injuries mid-fight, Santos pushed Jones to a narrow split decision loss. Speaking on a recent MMA podcast, Santos said:

“Tom Aspinall is not just talented, he’s built differently. If he stays healthy, he’s going to be a future legend.”

Santos, who has fought elite names across both light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, described Aspinall’s fight IQ, movement, and “killer instinct” as factors that separate him from the rest.

Aspinall’s path to UFC stardom

Tom Aspinall has carved out a unique path in the UFC. Unlike many fighters who take the slow route through the rankings, Aspinall bulldozed his way into title contention. His recent first-round KO victory over Sergei Pavlovich in November 2023 at UFC 295 left fans and pundits stunned. In that fight, Aspinall showcased lightning-quick hands, elite timing, and an ability to finish fights early.

What sets Aspinall apart is his well-rounded skill set. While most heavyweights rely on power and brawling, Aspinall brings a technical striking game, elite grappling, and exceptional agility for his size. His calm demeanor and strategic mindset make him a nightmare matchup for anyone in the top 5.

Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall: The fight fans crave

As Aspinall’s star continues to rise, the MMA world is clamoring for a superfight between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall. Jones, who returned to action in 2023 after a long layoff to claim the vacant heavyweight title, has yet to defend his belt against a young, surging contender.

Many believe Aspinall is the perfect foil for Jones. His size, youth, and evolving game present the kind of challenge the champion hasn’t faced in years. Critics have accused Jones of “cherry-picking” easier fights since moving to heavyweight. Facing Aspinall would silence those critiques once and for all.

Expert opinions: Is Aspinall ready for greatness?

The buzz around Aspinall isn’t just media hype. UFC analysts and legends are lining up to praise the English fighter. Daniel Cormier, a former double champ and longtime commentator, said:

“Tom Aspinall is the kind of guy who can beat Jon Jones. He’s fast, he’s smart, and he hits like a truck.”

Similarly, Michael Bisping, the UFC Hall of Famer and fellow Brit, believes Aspinall is destined for gold:

“He’s not just good; he’s special. There’s something about Tom that reminds me of the all-time greats.”

The consensus is clear: Tom Aspinall has all the tools to become a UFC legend, and he might already be on that trajectory.

Aspinall’s humble reaction to the hype

Despite the growing buzz and public endorsements, Aspinall has remained grounded. In post-fight interviews and media appearances, he consistently emphasizes staying focused and improving every day.

“It’s flattering to hear those things, but I’ve got a long way to go. I haven’t even scratched the surface of what I can do.”

This humility, coupled with an elite skill set, makes Aspinall even more likable to fans and respected by fellow fighters.

What does this mean for Jon Jones?

Jon Jones, long considered the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, is now in the unfamiliar position of being hunted. Injuries and inactivity have slowed his momentum, and younger fighters like Aspinall are ready to seize the moment.

While Jones still holds the undisputed title, public perception is shifting. More fans are beginning to see Aspinall as the uncrowned king of the heavyweight division. If Jones avoids the fight, the calls of ducking will only grow louder.

On the flip side, a matchup with Aspinall gives Jones the opportunity to cement his legacy. Beating the most dangerous young heavyweight would reaffirm his GOAT status and potentially retire on top.

The fans want it, the UFC needs it

With Dana White always on the lookout for blockbuster main events, Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall is as marketable as it gets. A cross-generational clash between the old guard and the future legend would generate massive pay-per-view numbers.

If the UFC wants to restore energy to the heavyweight division, this is the fight to make. And with Aspinall’s momentum, the timing has never been better.

Final thoughts: Is Tom Aspinall the next UFC legend?

Whether or not Tom Aspinall defeats Jon Jones, his trajectory in the UFC is undeniable. The endorsement from a respected former Jones opponent like Thiago Santos only adds legitimacy to what fans already see. Aspinall is more than just a rising star—he’s a legitimate threat to the throne.

His humility, hunger, and devastating fighting style make him one of the most exciting fighters to watch in any division. And if he does get the opportunity to dethrone Jon Jones, he could go from ‘future legend’ to present-day king in a single night.

Until then, the world watches—and waits.