Tom Aspinall wants to fight Jon Jones in International Fight Week at UFC 317 on June 28

In the ever-thrilling world of mixed martial arts (MMA), few events can capture global attention like a potential showdown between rising superstar Tom Aspinall and legendary fighter Jon “Bones” Jones. With rumors swirling around the UFC’s plans for International Fight Week 2025, culminating in UFC 317 on June 28, fans are eagerly anticipating what could be one of the most significant heavyweight bouts in recent history.

This article will explore the potential clash from every angle, breaking down the fighters’ backgrounds, their paths to the top, the stakes involved, and what makes this fight so compelling for MMA enthusiasts.

Tom Aspinall: The Meteoric Rise of a Heavyweight Contender

Hailing from Salford, England, Tom Aspinall is one of the fastest-rising stars in the UFC heavyweight division. With a background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and boxing, Aspinall has consistently impressed fans and analysts with his rare combination of speed, power, and technical skill—traits that set him apart in a division traditionally dominated by slower, bulkier fighters.

Aspinall’s UFC Journey

Aspinall made his UFC debut in 2020, and it didn’t take long for him to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with. His early fights were marked by quick finishes, often via knockout or submission, showcasing his well-rounded skill set. Unlike some heavyweights who rely solely on power punches, Aspinall’s ability to seamlessly blend striking with grappling has made him a nightmare matchup for many opponents.

In 2024, Aspinall reached the pinnacle of the division by capturing the interim UFC heavyweight title, defeating Sergei Pavlovich in a thrilling encounter. He followed this victory with a dominant performance against Curtis Blaydes, further solidifying his position as one of the top heavyweights in the world. Now, with the interim belt around his waist, Aspinall has set his sights on unifying the championship by challenging Jon Jones—the reigning UFC heavyweight champion and one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Jon Jones: A Legacy of Unmatched Dominance

When discussing the greatest fighters in MMA history, Jon “Bones” Jones inevitably tops the list. Jones, who began his UFC career in 2008, has achieved legendary status thanks to his reign as the light heavyweight champion, where he set records for title defenses, dominance, and versatility. Known for his unorthodox striking, elite wrestling, and high fight IQ, Jones has been virtually unbeatable inside the Octagon.

After vacating his light heavyweight title in 2020, Jones moved up to the heavyweight division—a long-anticipated transition that promised to test him against the biggest and most powerful fighters in the world. He captured the heavyweight title in 2023 and later defended it by defeating Stipe Miocic, cementing his status as a two-division champion. Now, as he approaches the twilight of his career, Jones faces a new challenge in Tom Aspinall, a young, dynamic fighter determined to dethrone him.

Why Aspinall vs. Jones Is the Fight Fans Want to See

The potential fight between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones isn’t just another title bout—it’s a clash of styles, generations, and legacies. Let’s explore what makes this matchup so exciting:

1. A Clash of Styles

Aspinall and Jones are both known for their versatility, but their fighting styles differ in key ways:

• Aspinall’s Speed and Athleticism: Unlike many heavyweights, Aspinall moves with the speed and agility of a middleweight. His striking is crisp, his grappling is elite, and his cardio allows him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight.
• Jones’ Unorthodox Approach: Jones is a master of unpredictability. Whether it’s using spinning elbows, oblique kicks, or his wrestling to dominate opponents, Jones has a deep arsenal of techniques that keep his opponents guessing.

This stylistic contrast sets the stage for a fascinating chess match inside the Octagon.

2. Generational Showdown

At 34 years old, Aspinall represents the new wave of UFC heavyweights—athletic, well-rounded, and technically skilled. Jones, at 37, is part of the previous generation but has maintained his dominance through adaptability and experience. This fight represents a classic passing-of-the-torch moment, where the old guard faces off against the new.

3. High Stakes for Both Fighters

For Aspinall, a victory over Jones would be career-defining. It would establish him as the undisputed heavyweight champion and the new face of the division. For Jones, defeating a top contender like Aspinall would further solidify his legacy as the greatest of all time (GOAT) and prove that he can continue to dominate even as the competition evolves.

The Road to UFC 317: Negotiations and Potential Challenges

While both Aspinall and Jones have expressed interest in the fight, there are still hurdles to overcome before the bout can be finalized. Negotiations between fighters, managers, and the UFC can be complex, especially when it comes to high-profile matchups like this one.

Jones’ Demands

Reports suggest that Jones is seeking a substantial payout and a six-month preparation period to ensure he’s in peak condition. Given his status as one of the UFC’s biggest draws, these demands aren’t surprising, but they could delay the fight beyond the targeted June 28 date.

Aspinall’s Perspective

Aspinall, on the other hand, is eager to unify the titles as soon as possible. In recent interviews, he’s emphasized that his primary motivation is legacy, not money, and he’s expressed frustration with the delays in securing the fight.

Despite these challenges, UFC President Dana White has remained optimistic, stating that the promotion is working hard to finalize the bout in time for International Fight Week.

Training Camps: Preparing for the Biggest Fight of Their Careers

Both fighters are known for their meticulous preparation, and their training camps for this fight will be crucial.

Aspinall’s Training Focus

Aspinall’s camp will likely emphasize:

• Footwork and Movement: To avoid Jones’ reach and unorthodox strikes.
• Grappling Defense: To neutralize Jones’ wrestling and avoid being taken down.
• Cardio and Conditioning: To maintain a high pace and avoid slowing down in the later rounds.

Jones’ Training Focus

Jones, meanwhile, will likely focus on:

• Exploiting Aspinall’s Aggression: Using feints and counterstrikes to capitalize on any openings.
• Wrestling Dominance: Taking the fight to the ground, where he has historically excelled.
• Game Planning and Adaptability: Developing a strategy that can be adjusted mid-fight based on how Aspinall performs.

Potential Outcomes and Implications

The result of this fight could have far-reaching implications for both the fighters and the UFC heavyweight division:

If Aspinall Wins

• A New Era Begins: Aspinall would become the undisputed heavyweight champion and the face of the division.
• Future Matchups: A win could set up exciting future bouts against other top contenders, such as Sergei Pavlovich or Ciryl Gane.

If Jones Wins

• GOAT Status Solidified: Jones’ legacy as the greatest MMA fighter of all time would be virtually unassailable.
• Continued Dominance: A victory would raise the question of whether anyone can dethrone him, given his dominance across two weight classes.

Conclusion: A Fight for the Ages

The potential matchup between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones has all the ingredients of a classic: contrasting styles, high stakes, and the potential for unforgettable drama. Whether it happens at UFC 317 or later, this is a fight that promises to captivate fans and leave a lasting impact on the sport of MMA.

As negotiations continue and preparations intensify, one thing is clear: the heavyweight division has never been more exciting, and the world will be watching when Aspinall and Jones finally step into the Octagon.