Tom Aspinall “calls out” Jon Jones: “I live authentically, while he hides!”

The UFC interim heavyweight champion is done waiting in silence.
Tom Aspinall has finally called out Jon Jones—not just for a fight, but for what he calls a lack of authenticity, courage, and integrity in the sport of MMA.

“I live authentically. I show up. I fight. Jon Jones hides behind excuses,” Aspinall said in a scorching new interview with The Mac Life.

With UFC’s heavyweight division in limbo, the rising British star has had enough. He’s no longer interested in polite call-outs or hopeful matchmaking. Now, he’s demanding answers and clarity from the man many call the greatest of all time.

Tom Aspinall vs Jon Jones: The Fight That Must Happen

Ever since Aspinall demolished Sergei Pavlovich in just 69 seconds at UFC 295 to claim the interim heavyweight title, the fight world has speculated about a potential showdown with Jon Jones. But that matchup remains in limbo, largely due to Jones’ lingering pectoral injury and his preference for a legacy fight against former champion Stipe Miocic.

“Let’s be real. I’ve cleaned out my side of the bracket. I came back from injury and smoked Pavlovich. What has Jon done? He fought Ciryl Gane, who I was already scheduled to fight. Now he wants to fight Stipe, who hasn’t fought in three years? That’s not legacy—that’s hiding,” said Aspinall.

“I Respect What Jon Has Done, But Not What He’s Doing”

Tom Aspinall has always been a respectful competitor—never known for trash talk or showboating. But even his patience has limits.

“I respect Jon’s accomplishments. But we’re talking about now. Right now, I’m the most dangerous heavyweight in the world. And he’s avoiding me like the plague.”

Jon Jones, who returned from a three-year layoff in 2023 to submit Ciryl Gane and claim the vacant heavyweight title, was expected to defend against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295. But an injury days before the bout forced him out—and Aspinall stepped in on short notice, delivering one of the most spectacular finishes in recent heavyweight history.

“If Jon wants to prove he’s still the best, there’s only one fight that makes sense: me. But deep down, I think he knows how that ends,” Aspinall said.

Is Jon Jones Protecting a Legacy or Avoiding a Challenge?

The MMA world is divided. Some say Jon Jones is merely prioritizing a career-defining bout against Stipe Miocic—one final fight to cement his GOAT status. Others, like Aspinall, believe Jones is cherry-picking his final opponent.

“He’s picking legends from the past, not killers from the present. That’s not what a real champion does,” Aspinall emphasized.

This sentiment is echoed by UFC veteran and analyst Michael Bisping, who recently stated on his YouTube channel:

“Let’s be honest, Jon should be fighting Tom Aspinall. That’s the real title fight. Stipe hasn’t fought since 2021. Tom is here, he’s healthy, he’s hungry. That’s who Jon should be facing.”

Even UFC President Dana White has acknowledged the dilemma. While he continues to support the Jon vs. Stipe legacy fight, he admitted:

“Aspinall is a beast. He’s earned that shot. He’s going to be a big part of this division’s future—no doubt.”

Aspinall’s Authentic Path to the Top

Unlike many fighters who talk their way into title shots, Tom Aspinall has let his fists do the talking.

• 14 wins.

• 12 finishes.

• Fastest finish in a UFC heavyweight title fight (vs Pavlovich).

• Recovered from a devastating knee injury in 2022 to return stronger than ever.

“I’ve never asked for special treatment. I don’t fake beef. I just fight. That’s what fans respect. That’s what I’m proud of,” Aspinall said.

This humility is exactly why fans have rallied behind the Manchester native. In a division filled with drama and egos, Aspinall brings authenticity, fearlessness, and skill—a combination that’s impossible to ignore.

Jon Jones’ Silence Speaks Volumes

While Aspinall continues to speak openly about the fight, Jon Jones has remained quiet, focusing instead on rehab and social media posts about his faith and legacy.

“If he’s not fighting me, then what is he doing?” Aspinall asked. “It’s been over a year since he last fought. He’s holding up the division. That’s not fair to the fans or the fighters working their way up.”

Many fans agree. The clamor for a unification bout between Aspinall and Jones grows louder with every passing month. And as the UFC looks to stack its upcoming cards, pressure is mounting for Dana White to make the real heavyweight title fight happen.

The Fans Want It. The Sport Needs It.

Across Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and MMA forums, the verdict is clear: Tom Aspinall vs Jon Jones is the fight to make.

“Jon Jones is the GOAT, but he needs to prove it at heavyweight,” one Reddit user wrote.
“Aspinall’s the new blood. He’s faster, younger, hungrier. That’s the real test.”

Aspinall’s coach, Colin Heron, agrees:

“Tom’s not only the best athlete in the division—he’s also the most complete. There’s no one else Jon could face who’s more dangerous. And that’s exactly why he should fight him.”

What’s Next If Jones Refuses?

So what happens if Jon Jones insists on fighting Miocic—or retires altogether?

“If Jon doesn’t show up, I want Dana to strip him. Let’s unify the belts properly. Enough of the waiting,” Aspinall demanded.

He also hinted at other top contenders waiting in the wings:

• Curtis Blaydes (who holds a controversial TKO win over Aspinall due to injury)

• Jailton Almeida, the rising grappling phenom

• Sergei Pavlovich, if he bounces back

“I’ll fight anyone. But we all know the fight that matters—the fight that answers everything—is me vs. Jon Jones.”

Final Word: Tom Aspinall’s Time Is Now

Tom Aspinall isn’t just asking for Jon Jones anymore—he’s daring him.

This isn’t about disrespect. It’s about truth. About legacy. About crowning a real heavyweight king.

“I’m not here for gimmicks. I’m here to fight the best. And Jon, if you think you’re still the best—come find out.”

For now, the ball is in Jon Jones’ court.

Will the GOAT answer the call—or will Aspinall rule a kingdom left abandoned?