Tom is the Future While Jon is Just the Past, Afraid of a Younger, Faster, Stronger Guy!

The UFC heavyweight division has always been one of the most exciting in combat sports, and today, the conversation revolves around one burning question: Will Jon Jones finally face Tom Aspinall, or will he continue to avoid him? As the sport continues to evolve, newer, younger fighters are proving that the old guard may no longer be as dominant. Aspinall, the surging British star, has called out Jones, stating that the longtime champion should “throw the belt away” if he isn’t willing to defend it. This statement has sparked intense debate in the MMA world, with many believing that Jones is dodging his toughest challenge yet.

Jon Jones: A Legacy in Question

For more than a decade, Jon “Bones” Jones has been regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. His dominance in the light heavyweight division was unparalleled, and his move to heavyweight was met with immense anticipation. However, his reluctance to face Tom Aspinall has raised serious questions about his credibility as the UFC heavyweight champion.

At 36 years old, Jones is no longer the young, dynamic fighter who once dismantled his competition with ease. His most recent fight, a quick submission win over Ciryl Gane, showcased his skills but did little to prove he can handle the new breed of heavyweights. With Tom Aspinall dominating top contenders, fans are growing frustrated with Jones’ continued absence from competition.

Why Jon Jones Is Avoiding Tom Aspinall

Despite his legendary status, Jones has yet to defend his title against an elite, active heavyweight contender. While he was scheduled to face Stipe Miocic, an injury forced him to withdraw, leaving fans without a true title fight for months. But why is Jones hesitant to fight Aspinall? Here are a few reasons:

1. The Fear of Facing a Younger, Faster, Stronger Opponent

Tom Aspinall represents a new era of heavyweights. He possesses the speed of a light heavyweight, the striking precision of a kickboxer, and the grappling skills of a submission specialist. At just 30 years old, Aspinall is in his prime, while Jones is approaching the later stages of his career. Fighting Aspinall would be one of the riskiest matchups of Jones’ career, and many believe he knows it.

2. Strategic Delays and Excuses

Jones has a history of delaying fights and engaging in prolonged negotiations. While injuries and contract discussions are valid concerns, his reluctance to directly address Aspinall’s challenge is suspicious. Instead of accepting the fight, Jones has hinted at retirement or only wanting “legacy” fights, like the proposed bout with Stipe Miocic.

3. UFC’s Protection of Its Star Fighter

Dana White and the UFC have a vested interest in keeping Jon Jones active. However, there is speculation that they are protecting him from high-risk fights like Aspinall. A loss to Aspinall would drastically alter Jones’ legacy and financial drawing power, which is something the UFC may not be willing to gamble on.

Tom Aspinall: The Future of the Heavyweight Division

If Jones truly wants to prove he is the best, he must face the most dangerous contender in the division. Aspinall has been tearing through his opponents, finishing fights in dominant fashion. His skill set is far superior to many of the heavyweights Jones has faced before, making him the most deserving title challenger.

1. A Complete Mixed Martial Artist

Aspinall isn’t just a power puncher—he is one of the most well-rounded heavyweights in UFC history. His ability to blend striking and grappling seamlessly makes him an unpredictable and dangerous opponent. Unlike many heavyweights who rely solely on knockout power, Aspinall has a deep understanding of MMA that could pose serious problems for Jones.

2. Finishing Fights in Devastating Fashion

One of the most compelling reasons why Aspinall deserves a title shot is his finishing ability. He doesn’t rely on judges’ decisions; he puts his opponents away. Whether it’s through knockouts or submissions, Aspinall has consistently proven that he can end fights quickly and decisively.

3. A Fight Fans Want to See

The UFC is a business, and big fights generate big money. Right now, Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall is one of the most anticipated matchups in combat sports. Fans are tired of waiting, and if Jones refuses, Aspinall has made his stance clear: “Throw the belt away and let real fighters take over.”

What’s Next for Jon Jones?

Jones has several options moving forward, but none of them allow him to escape the growing demand for him to face Aspinall. Here are his three choices:

1. Accept the Fight and Defend His Title

The best way for Jones to silence critics is by stepping into the Octagon and proving he can defeat Aspinall. A win would reinforce his status as the undisputed champion and solidify his legacy. However, if he loses, his reign will be seen as a short-lived experiment in the heavyweight division.

2. Continue Avoiding the Fight and Damage His Reputation

If Jones refuses to face Aspinall, it will be clear that he is avoiding the toughest competition. His legacy will be permanently stained, and fans will no longer consider him the true champion. Avoiding this fight only hurts Jones’ credibility.

3. Vacate the Title and Retire

Jones has flirted with retirement multiple times. If he chooses to vacate the belt and walk away, his GOAT status will be questioned forever. True champions don’t avoid challenges—they embrace them.

The Verdict: UFC Must Make This Fight Happen

If the UFC wants to maintain its reputation as the pinnacle of combat sports, it must ensure that its champions defend their titles against the best contenders. Jon Jones has yet to face a legitimate, active heavyweight threat, and Tom Aspinall is the perfect test.

Jones has long lived off his past achievements, but the sport of MMA moves forward. If he continues dodging Aspinall, he is only delaying the inevitable. The UFC, the fans, and the sport itself demand Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall.