“Jon Jones Vacates UFC Title: Will Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane Crown the True Heavyweight King in 2025?”

The UFC heavyweight division is once again in the spotlight as Jon Jones officially vacates his heavyweight title, setting the stage for what many believe could be the true battle for supremacy between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane. The MMA world is buzzing as fans and analysts alike debate whether this potential showdown in 2025 will determine the real heavyweight king.

Jon Jones’ Title Reign Ends Without Closure

After moving up from light heavyweight in 2020 and claiming the vacant heavyweight title in 2023 with a quick submission over Ciryl Gane, Jon Jones seemed poised to dominate a second division. However, his long-anticipated bout with Stipe Miocic was derailed by a severe pectoral injury in late 2023. As the months dragged on, speculation grew over whether Jones would return at all.

In May 2025, Dana White confirmed what many feared: Jon Jones has officially vacated the UFC heavyweight belt.

Jones’ departure leaves a legacy clouded by inactivity. He competed only once at heavyweight and never faced the division’s rising stars like Tom Aspinall, Sergei Pavlovich, or a rematch with Ciryl Gane. While Jones will always be considered among the greatest fighters in MMA history, his exit without defending the title casts doubt on whether he truly ruled the heavyweight division.

Tom Aspinall: The Interim Champion with a Point to Prove

Tom Aspinall became interim UFC heavyweight champion in November 2023 with a stunning 69-second knockout of Sergei Pavlovich. The British powerhouse possesses elite athleticism, crisp boxing, and a sneaky-good ground game—traits that have allowed him to finish nearly every opponent he’s faced.

Aspinall was vocal about wanting to unify the title against Jon Jones, but with Jones stepping away, the focus shifts. Now, Aspinall seeks legitimacy not just through the interim belt, but by defeating one of the most technical heavyweights in the game: Ciryl Gane.

The UFC may soon book Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane for the undisputed UFC heavyweight title, and fans are already hyped for the possibility.

Ciryl Gane: A Master of Movement and Strategy

Frenchman Ciryl Gane may have come up short against Jones in their 2023 title clash, but he remains one of the most dangerous and well-rounded heavyweights on the planet. Known for his footwork, precision striking, and fight IQ, Gane rebounded from his loss to Jones with a dominant performance over Jairzinho Rozenstruik and a statement win against Tai Tuivasa.

Critics often cite Gane’s grappling deficiencies, exposed in losses to Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones. But since then, he’s been reportedly focused on wrestling and ground defense—areas he’ll need to shore up before facing a complete threat like Aspinall.

If Gane can dethrone Aspinall, it would cement his place as the rightful successor to the heavyweight throne vacated by Jones.

Aspinall vs. Gane: Clash of Styles

Stylistically, Aspinall vs. Gane is a dream matchup. It’s not the typical “brawler vs. grappler” narrative. Instead, it’s a bout between two modern, agile heavyweights who move like light heavyweights.

• Aspinall thrives on forward pressure, rapid combinations, and quick level changes. His speed is shocking for a man of his size.

• Gane, meanwhile, uses lateral movement, angles, and calculated counters. His ability to keep opponents at range while avoiding damage makes him elusive and frustrating to face.

Where this fight could be won is in the grappling exchanges. If Aspinall can close the distance, he may exploit Gane’s previously exposed ground game. However, if Gane maintains range, his striking volume and fight IQ could carry him to a points victory or late stoppage.

What This Fight Means for the Heavyweight Division

With Jon Jones out of the picture, the UFC needs a new, marketable face of the heavyweight division. Aspinall and Gane are the two most qualified fighters to fill that void. Their clash could define the next era of heavyweight MMA.

Moreover, the winner will have a target on their back. Rising contenders like Sergei Pavlovich, Curtis Blaydes, and even Jailton Almeida are lurking. A decisive victory in this bout will send a clear message: the heavyweight crown has a rightful owner, not just a placeholder.

Fans Are Ready for a New Era

Online buzz has been building since the announcement of Jones’ departure. Many believe that Aspinall vs. Gane is the real title fight fans have been waiting for. No legacy fighters, no interim belts—just two elite competitors in their prime.

British fans rally behind Aspinall as the future of the division, while French supporters see Gane as the sophisticated tactician who just needed another chance. This is more than a title fight—it’s a battle for identity, regional pride, and legacy.

UFC’s Heavyweight Marketing Opportunity

The UFC has struggled in recent years to maintain a consistent heavyweight narrative. Between Ngannou’s departure, Jones’ inactivity, and interim belts being handed out, the division lacked clarity. Now, with Jon Jones stepping down and two top-tier contenders ready to fight, the organization has a chance to reignite global interest.

A UFC 300-level card featuring Aspinall vs. Gane as the headliner would not only sell tickets but also re-establish the heavyweight belt’s prestige. Add to that a co-main with rising stars like Pavlovich vs. Almeida, and the UFC has a blockbuster on its hands.

Jon Jones’ Legacy: Complete or Incomplete?

While this new era dawns, Jon Jones’ legacy remains a topic of debate. Is he the greatest of all time? Arguably, yes—based on his light heavyweight reign. But as a heavyweight, the story feels unfinished.

Fans may forever wonder what could have been had he faced Aspinall, Pavlovich, or even Miocic. But in MMA, timing is everything—and injuries can rewrite history in a flash.

Jones may return for a legacy bout down the line, but for now, the torch is being passed.

Final Verdict: Who Is the True King?

If Tom Aspinall defeats Ciryl Gane convincingly, especially via finish, many will accept him as the rightful heavyweight king. He’s young, well-rounded, and charismatic—a potential long-term champion.

On the other hand, if Ciryl Gane outclasses Aspinall, he not only avenges his loss to Jones in spirit but also proves he’s learned and evolved. A win would be his crowning moment, silencing doubters for good.

Either way, the UFC heavyweight division is about to witness a massive shift, and fans are in for a treat.