Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall in the summer and Alex Pereira vs. that winner are UFC’s preferred plan

The UFC heavyweight division is heading into one of its most exciting and unpredictable periods in years. With Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall potentially clashing in the summer of 2025, fans are eagerly awaiting what could be one of the most significant fights in heavyweight history. Meanwhile, former light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira remains a wildcard, with his future hanging in the balance after his recent loss to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313.

With so many moving pieces, this article breaks down everything happening in the UFC’s heavyweight landscape, the key fights ahead, and what it all means for the future of the division.

Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall: The Heavyweight Unification Fight Fans Want

Jon Jones: The Dominant Champion

Jon “Bones” Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. After an illustrious career at light heavyweight, Jones made his heavyweight debut in 2023, quickly capturing the undisputed UFC heavyweight championship. His combination of elite striking, world-class wrestling, and fight IQ makes him one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport’s history.

However, since winning the title, Jones has been relatively inactive due to injuries and contract negotiations. Fans have been clamoring for him to defend his belt, but delays have left many wondering if the legendary fighter will ever step into the Octagon again.

Tom Aspinall: The Rising Star Hungry for His Shot

Tom Aspinall, the UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion, has been on an absolute tear in the division. With his quick hands, technical boxing, and slick grappling, the British fighter has dominated his competition, finishing nearly all of his opponents. Aspinall’s victory over Sergei Pavlovich for the interim belt solidified his place as the rightful number-one contender for Jones’ title.

Despite Aspinall’s dominant performances, there is still no official confirmation of his unification bout with Jones. UFC President Dana White has repeatedly stated that the fight is the top priority, but negotiations have taken longer than expected.

What’s Holding Up the Fight?

According to White, there are two main factors delaying the fight:

1. Jon Jones’ Recovery: Jones suffered a pectoral injury that required surgery, and while he is expected to return in 2025, the exact timeline remains uncertain.
2. Contract Negotiations: The UFC has been in long discussions with Jones about his next contract, ensuring he is properly compensated for what could be one of the biggest fights in UFC history.

Despite these delays, White remains optimistic that Jones vs. Aspinall will take place in the summer of 2025.

Aspinall, however, has expressed frustration with the situation, saying that he still hasn’t received official confirmation about the fight. “I’m training like it’s happening, but until I see that contract, I’m not holding my breath,” Aspinall said in a recent interview.

Alex Pereira: The Wild Card in the Heavyweight Division

Pereira’s Setback at UFC 313

Alex “Poatan” Pereira, a former kickboxing world champion, has been one of the UFC’s most electrifying fighters in recent years. After capturing the light heavyweight title, many fans speculated that he could eventually move up to heavyweight for a superfight with Jon Jones.

However, at UFC 313, Pereira suffered a tough loss to Magomed Ankalaev, costing him his light heavyweight belt. This loss has significant implications for the UFC’s matchmaking plans. If Pereira had won, a Jones vs. Pereira superfight would have been a massive draw.

What’s Next for Pereira?

Despite the setback, Pereira isn’t done yet. In a recent statement, he confirmed that he plans to train harder and make adjustments for a rematch with Ankalaev. If he can reclaim his light heavyweight title, talks of a potential move to heavyweight could still be on the table.

Could Pereira Still Fight Jones or Aspinall?

Even though a direct fight between Pereira and Jones is off the table for now, the Brazilian striker still has options:

• Win the Light Heavyweight Belt Back: If he defeats Ankalaev in a rematch, he could call for a superfight at heavyweight.
• Jump to Heavyweight Anyway: Given his knockout power, Pereira could make the move to heavyweight without regaining his light heavyweight title. If Jones retires, a Pereira vs. Aspinall fight could become a reality.

With Pereira’s unpredictable fighting style and willingness to take on anyone, it’s still possible he could shake up the heavyweight division in the near future.

Magomed Ankalaev Stirring the Pot

The Fighter Who Changed Everything

By defeating Alex Pereira at UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev threw a wrench into the UFC’s potential superfight plans. He now stands as the light heavyweight champion, which gives him the ability to call for big fights in the future.

Calling Out Jon Jones and Aspinall

After his victory, Ankalaev mocked Jon Jones, claiming that the heavyweight champion is avoiding his fight with Tom Aspinall. Ankalaev even went as far as to suggest that Jones should retire if he isn’t willing to defend his belt.

These comments have fueled speculation that Ankalaev could eventually move up to heavyweight, creating even more intriguing matchups in the division.

What’s Next for the UFC Heavyweight Division?

Key Fights to Watch in 2025

1. Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall (Summer 2025—Heavyweight Title Unification Fight)

   • The biggest fight of the year, determining the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion.

2. Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira 2 (Potential Rematch for the Light Heavyweight Title)

   • If Pereira wins, it could open the door for a future move to heavyweight.

3. Sergei Pavlovich vs. Ciryl Gane (Top Heavyweight Contender Fight)

   • A big fight that could determine the next title challenger after Aspinall vs. Jones.

Will Jon Jones Retire?

There’s a real possibility that Jon Jones could retire after his fight with Aspinall, especially if he wins. The MMA legend has nothing left to prove, and at 37 years old, he may decide to walk away from the sport on top.

If Jones retires, the UFC will have to crown a new champion, setting the stage for fighters like Aspinall, Pereira, and Ankalaev to take center stage.

Conclusion

The UFC heavyweight division is heading into an exciting but uncertain future. Fans are eagerly waiting for the Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall title unification fight, which could be one of the biggest fights in MMA history. Meanwhile, Alex Pereira remains a wildcard, with the potential to shake things up if he can win back his light heavyweight belt.

With fighters like Magomed Ankalaev, Sergei Pavlovich, and Ciryl Gane waiting in the wings, the division is packed with talent. Whether Jones defends his title, moves up in weight, or retires, one thing is certain:

The UFC heavyweight division is more unpredictable than ever, and fans are in for an unforgettable year of fights.