Jon Jones Makes Shocking Statement on IG Live: ‘I Am Not Avoiding Tom Aspinall, I Am Just Living My Best Life!’

Jon Jones, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion and one of the most polarizing figures in MMA history, has finally broken his silence on growing speculation that he is ducking Tom Aspinall. During a recent Instagram Live session, Jones addressed fans directly, brushing off the accusations and making it clear he’s in no rush to validate anyone’s timeline but his own.

With Aspinall continuing to build momentum as the UFC interim heavyweight champion, and fans clamoring for a unification bout, Jones’ absence from the Octagon has stirred controversy. However, “Bones” had plenty to say to those calling his character or championship legitimacy into question.

“I’m Living My Absolute Best Life”

In his IG Live, Jon Jones responded directly to fans calling him a “duck”, using the platform to make light of the situation while standing firm in his approach.

“I’ve got people in the chat calling me a duck,” Jones said. “Meanwhile, I’m living my absolute best life.”

The remark wasn’t just a deflection — it was a bold assertion that he’s unconcerned with the online criticism. Whether it was his calm demeanor or the carefree way he responded, Jones seemed unaffected by the brewing storm surrounding his name.

“I don’t know if it’s considered ducking when you’re living good. I don’t think it works like that,” he added, grinning at the camera.

This wasn’t the first time Jon Jones has been accused of avoiding tough matchups, but with the growing popularity of Tom Aspinall, the chorus of critics has only gotten louder.

Tom Aspinall’s Meteoric Rise

Since debuting in the UFC, Tom Aspinall has dazzled fans with his speed, power, and finishing ability — a rare combination in the heavyweight division. After suffering a knee injury against Curtis Blaydes in 2022, many wondered if Aspinall would ever regain that momentum. But he did — and with a vengeance.

In 2023, Aspinall made his triumphant return by knocking out Sergei Pavlovich in the first round to claim the UFC interim heavyweight title at Madison Square Garden. The performance was emphatic, explosive, and instantly led to fans demanding a Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall title unification bout.

Jones vs Miocic Standoff Still Looming

What further frustrates fans is that Jon Jones is still locked into a proposed title fight with former heavyweight king Stipe Miocic, a bout that was originally scheduled for UFC 295 before Jones tore a pectoral tendon in training.

While some fans argue that Miocic — at 42 years old and inactive since 2021 — is no longer a top contender, Jones insists that a fight with Stipe is about legacy, not rankings.

“He’s the greatest heavyweight of all time,” Jones said in previous interviews. “I want to beat the greatest.”

UFC president Dana White has repeatedly stated that Jones vs Miocic remains the priority, leaving Aspinall in a holding pattern.

Is It Really Ducking?

The idea that Jon Jones is ducking Tom Aspinall is subjective, but from Jones’ point of view, he’s simply following a path he’s earned. After moving up from light heavyweight and dismantling Ciryl Gane in just over two minutes to win the vacant heavyweight crown at UFC 285, Jones has insisted on a fight that cements his GOAT status — and that’s Stipe.

But for many fans and analysts, Aspinall is now the most dangerous and deserving challenge. Younger, faster, and with more momentum than Miocic, Aspinall represents a new era — and a direct threat to Jones’ undefeated UFC legacy.

Still, Jones doesn’t appear bothered by the noise.

“I’m not on Twitter arguing. I’m not in press conferences taking shots. I’m enjoying my family, healing my body, and planning for what’s next,” Jones said. “If that makes me a duck, so be it.”

Fan Reactions: A Divided Debate

Online, fan reaction has been divided. Some agree with Jon Jones’ approach, emphasizing that he has already accomplished more than nearly any other fighter in MMA history.

“He’s 27-1, arguably undefeated, has titles in two divisions, and beat legends like Cormier, Rampage, Shogun, and DC,” one fan posted. “He’s earned the right to call his shot.”

But others argue that avoiding Aspinall weakens his heavyweight reign.

“You can’t be the undisputed champ if you won’t fight the guy holding the interim belt,” another fan tweeted. “Aspinall is the real test.”

Whether you support him or not, Jones remains one of the most scrutinized champions in MMA history — and he doesn’t appear to mind at all.

What’s Next for Jon Jones?

As it stands, Jon Jones is still recovering from his injury, but he’s expected to return later in 2025, potentially to face Stipe Miocic, as originally planned. UFC President Dana White has confirmed the organization is still aiming to make that bout happen.

Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall continues to call for a unification fight, and has even said he would be willing to wait for Jones if needed. In the meantime, there’s speculation that Aspinall may defend his interim title against Curtis Blaydes, Sergei Pavlovich, or even Jailton Almeida.

Jones, however, isn’t feeling the pressure.

“I don’t live online. I live in the real world,” Jones stated. “I’ve already proven myself. Now I’m just adding to the legacy — and I’ll do that on my terms.”

Final Thoughts: Jon Jones Isn’t Rattled

No matter how loud the chatter gets, Jon Jones refuses to be rattled by accusations of ducking. His comments on Instagram Live were brief but telling — a clear indication that he won’t be bullied into a fight he doesn’t prioritize.

Still, the narrative continues to grow, and until Jon Jones steps back into the Octagon, questions will linger. Is it really ducking, or is it just smart career management from one of MMA’s most calculated champions?

One thing is certain: the longer Jones stays away, the louder Aspinall’s name will ring — and fans will only become more determined to see the old guard face the new lion.

Whether that happens in 2025 remains to be seen, but one fact is clear: Jon Jones is unbothered. And for now, that may be the biggest flex of all.