Jon Jones Declares He Won’t Avoid Tom Aspinall, Vows to Defeat the Interim Champion and Then Knock Out Francis Ngannou at PFL

Jon “Bones” Jones has never been one to shy away from controversy or bold claims. But in a recent statement that shook the MMA community, the reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion made it crystal clear—he has no intention of avoiding Tom Aspinall, the current interim titleholder. In fact, Jones has now doubled down on his legacy, stating not only will he face Aspinall, but he plans to defeat him decisively before setting his sights on Francis Ngannou—the former UFC champion now signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL). If this declaration becomes reality, fans could witness two of the biggest heavyweight fights in MMA history. Jones’ commitment to settling both scores sends a loud message to critics who’ve accused him of “ducking” young contenders or taking the safer route since capturing the heavyweight crown.

Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall heavyweight showdown on the horizon

The UFC heavyweight division has been rife with speculation ever since Tom Aspinall claimed the interim belt in late 2023. With Jon Jones sidelined due to injury, Aspinall’s quick rise through the ranks culminated in a stunning performance against Sergei Pavlovich that earned him the temporary crown. Fans immediately began questioning whether Jones would return to unify the titles or retire without facing the dynamic British striker. However, Jones’ latest statements have put those rumors to rest. “I have no fear of Tom Aspinall,” said Jones during an interview on a UFC-produced podcast. “He’s talented, sure—but I’ve been doing this a long time. He’s not the first guy people thought would beat me, and he won’t be the last. I’m going to unify those belts, no questions asked.” This declaration comes after months of heated debate. Critics and fans alike accused Jones of “title protection,” especially as the UFC seemingly entertained options that didn’t involve an immediate unification bout. But Jones’ renewed determination shifts the narrative. He’s making it clear: he wants to silence all doubters, and taking out Aspinall is step one.

Tom Aspinall poses real threat to Jon Jones’ legacy

There’s a reason Tom Aspinall is viewed as a legitimate threat. The British heavyweight is not only fast and powerful but also highly technical in both striking and grappling. His agility and composure in the octagon resemble that of a middleweight—rare qualities in the heavyweight ranks. Aspinall’s fans argue that he’s the most complete heavyweight in the UFC today, and many believe he’s the one fighter who could outmatch Jon Jones in both speed and fight IQ. Aspinall himself has remained respectful but confident. “I respect Jon, but he’s never fought someone like me,” he said in a recent BT Sport interview. “He’s older now, coming off an injury, and I’m just getting started. I think I can beat him everywhere.” Aspinall’s self-belief isn’t unfounded. His recent fights have ended in emphatic fashion, often in the first round. He possesses knockout power, high-level grappling, and the composure of a veteran despite his relatively short UFC tenure. A bout between Jones and Aspinall would be not only a stylistic masterpiece but also a test of generational skill sets. Is Jones still the cerebral assassin who ruled the light heavyweight division for a decade? Or is it finally time for a new era to begin?

Jon Jones calls out Francis Ngannou for PFL superfight

After addressing Aspinall, Jon Jones added fuel to the fire by reigniting his long-standing rivalry with Francis Ngannou. The Cameroonian powerhouse left the UFC in early 2023 amid a contract dispute and later signed with the PFL. Since then, fans have wondered whether a Jones vs. Ngannou superfight would ever materialize. Now, Jones has taken matters into his own hands. “After I handle Aspinall, I’m going to knock Francis out cold,” Jones said bluntly. “I don’t care if it’s in the UFC, PFL, or the parking lot—I want that fight.” This statement signals a potential cross-promotional megafight between the UFC’s current heavyweight king and the most feared puncher in MMA history. While such events are rare due to promotional politics, the recent trend of crossover bouts (like Ngannou vs. Tyson Fury) has shown that with the right stakes and money, anything is possible. Jones’ desire to face Ngannou appears both personal and professional. He wants to silence critics who claim he avoided Ngannou when the latter held the UFC belt, and he wants to cement his legacy as the undisputed baddest man on the planet—across all organizations. For Ngannou, a win over Jones would validate his career decisions and add another feather to an already impressive cap.

UFC’s heavyweight division in flux with high-stakes matchups

The implications of Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall, followed by Jones vs Ngannou, would be massive for the UFC’s heavyweight division. Right now, the landscape is fragmented: Aspinall holds the interim title, Jones is the official champion, and Ngannou is seen by many as the lineal champ who never lost his belt in the octagon. A unification bout between Jones and Aspinall could restore order and crown a true, undisputed champion. If Jones wins, it sets the stage for an unprecedented crossover event with Ngannou. If Aspinall wins, he becomes the new face of heavyweight MMA and possibly faces Ngannou next. UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped on the specifics, but he’s hinted at major announcements in the coming months. “We’re working on something big in the heavyweight division,” White teased during a recent press conference. The timing couldn’t be better. With fan interest peaking and the fighters themselves expressing interest, it seems the stars are aligning for a historic series of showdowns.

Jon Jones’ mindset and legacy goals in 2025

Throughout his career, Jon Jones has been both celebrated and controversial. From his dominance in the light heavyweight division to his off-cage struggles, Jones’ story is a complex one. But now, as a heavyweight, he appears more focused than ever. “This isn’t about money or fame for me anymore,” Jones told ESPN. “This is about legacy. I want to beat the best guys available, no excuses, and leave no doubt that I’m the greatest to ever do it.” That mindset explains why Jones is now calling out the two most dangerous opponents available—Tom Aspinall and Francis Ngannou. Beating both would be a career-defining achievement that would silence even his harshest critics. It would also elevate his status in the GOAT conversation to untouchable heights. For Jones, 2025 might be the final chapter of his fighting career. But he’s determined to write it on his terms—with legacy fights, big names, and the kind of dominance that made him a legend in the first place.

Conclusion: Will Jones deliver or is a new era dawning?

Jon Jones has laid down the gauntlet. He’s promised not to avoid Tom Aspinall, and he’s vowed to knock out Francis Ngannou at PFL if needed. These are not idle threats—they are statements of intent from a fighter who knows exactly what’s at stake. If Jones follows through, he’ll not only unify the heavyweight division but also potentially create the biggest cross-promotional fight in MMA history. However, these won’t be easy tasks. Aspinall is young, hungry, and arguably the most well-rounded fighter Jones has ever faced. Ngannou, on the other hand, is a terrifying knockout artist with unmatched physical power. For Jones to beat both would require the kind of focus, preparation, and brilliance that defined his prime. Whether he still has that in him is the million-dollar question. One thing is certain: MMA fans are in for a thrilling ride. With high stakes, big personalities, and legacy on the line, the heavyweight division is once again the most exciting place in combat sports. All eyes now turn to the UFC matchmakers, the PFL executives, and most importantly—to Jon “Bones” Jones.