“Waiting in Vain…” Tom Aspinall Publicly Criticizes Jon Jones, Calls the Champion an Obstacle to the Most Anticipated UFC Superfight

The UFC heavyweight division is at a crossroads as Tom Aspinall publicly criticizes Jon Jones, accusing the reigning champion of being the key obstacle in delaying what could be the most anticipated UFC superfight of 2025. The English interim champion has been vocal about his frustrations, claiming that Jones and his team are the ones preventing the title unification bout from materializing. With UFC President Dana White confirming the promotion’s intent to book the fight next year, fans are left wondering: What’s really stopping this clash of generations?

Tom Aspinall’s Growing Frustration

In a recent YouTube vlog, Tom Aspinall made his stance clear, pulling no punches in calling out Jon Jones for the ongoing delays. The 31-year-old interim champion, who secured his title in late 2023, has been relentlessly pushing for a unification fight but insists that the holdup is on Jones’ end.

“I’ve had multiple conversations with the UFC about this fight,” Aspinall revealed. “I’ve been chasing it. I want it. I’ve made it clear that I’m ready. What’s stopping it now is his team. That’s just the truth.”

Aspinall continued, emphasizing that the UFC itself is eager to set up the bout, branding it as “one of the biggest fights in MMA right now.” However, he accused Jon Jones’ camp of dragging their feet.

“The question is: Does he want to be financially comfortable enough to take the risk of fighting me? That’s what’s happening right now.”

Aspinall last competed in July 2024 and has remained vocal about his desire to stay active. He even suggested defending his interim title again if Jones continues to delay. His words underscore a broader concern—has Jon Jones lost the hunger to take on new, dangerous challengers?

Jon Jones’ Legacy vs. Tom Aspinall’s Rise

The potential fight between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall represents more than just a title unification—it’s a battle between two distinct eras of MMA. Jon Jones, widely regarded as the greatest MMA fighter of all time (GOAT), has long dominated every opponent put in front of him. However, his activity has slowed, and his willingness to take on fresh challenges has come into question.

Jones, who returned from a three-year hiatus in November 2023 to defeat Stipe Miocic, has since been inactive, leaving many to speculate whether he’s hesitant to face a rising powerhouse like Tom Aspinall.

Aspinall’s skillset makes him a particularly dangerous threat. With explosive striking, fluid movement, and an underrated submission game, he poses unique challenges that Jon Jones hasn’t faced before. Critics argue that Jones, now 36, is being strategic about preserving his legacy, while others believe he’s simply waiting for the right deal.

What’s Stalling the Fight?

The UFC is notorious for its complex fight negotiations, but according to Tom Aspinall, the organization is doing everything it can to make this superfight happen. The roadblock, he insists, is Jon Jones and his team.

“UFC told me they’re pushing for it,” Aspinall stated. “Now it’s up to Jones and his camp to sort things out. Right now, I’m just waiting for the date.”

There are several potential reasons for the delay:

1. Financial Disputes – Fighters, especially champions like Jon Jones, negotiate pay-per-view points and fight purses meticulously. Jones has historically demanded higher pay for high-risk fights, and a showdown with Tom Aspinall is no different.

2. Injury Concerns – Jones has had multiple injuries throughout his career, including his time off before facing Miocic. If he’s not at full health, his team might be delaying until he feels ready.

3. Strategic Timing – Jones could be waiting for a more favorable matchup or pushing for a fight in a specific location with optimal conditions for his camp.

4. Contract Negotiations – UFC contract terms can be complex, and if Jon Jones is looking for a long-term extension with better financial security, negotiations could be slowing down the fight’s scheduling.

Fans and Analysts React

The delay in booking Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall has ignited debates among fans and analysts. Some argue that Jones, as a champion, has earned the right to call the shots and fight on his terms. Others believe that if he isn’t willing to defend the belt, he should vacate it and allow fresh contenders to battle for the official title.

Notable analysts have weighed in on the situation:

• Michael Bisping, a fellow Brit and former UFC champion, backed Aspinall’s claims, stating, “Tom is doing everything right. He’s calling for the fight, staying active, and keeping fans engaged. If Jones doesn’t want it, he needs to say so.”

• Daniel Cormier, Jones’ former rival, commented, “I’ve fought Jon. He’s a calculated fighter. He knows what fights make sense for his career. But at some point, he’s going to have to fight someone like Aspinall if he wants to maintain his legacy.”

What Happens If Jon Jones Doesn’t Fight?

If Jon Jones continues to delay, the UFC may be forced to make a tough decision. Options include:

1. Stripping Jones of the Belt – If he refuses to fight within a certain timeframe, the UFC could strip him of the title, elevating Tom Aspinall to undisputed champion.

2. Interim Title Defense – Aspinall has expressed willingness to defend his interim title again, possibly against another top contender like Sergei Pavlovich or Curtis Blaydes.

3. Alternative Matchups for Jones – If Jones doesn’t want to fight Tom Aspinall, the UFC might offer him a different, more lucrative opponent, such as a crossover fight with Francis Ngannou or a superfight with another UFC legend.

The Clash of Generations: Jones vs. Aspinall’s Future

The growing tension between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones represents a symbolic shift in the UFC heavyweight division. Jones, the seasoned veteran, embodies an older era of dominance, while Aspinall, the hungry challenger, represents the new wave of elite heavyweights ready to take over.

Jones’ silence on the matter is telling. For Aspinall, however, time is running out. He’s already stated, “I’m just waiting for the call now,” emphasizing his readiness to fight at any moment.

Final Thoughts

As the standoff between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones continues, the UFC finds itself in a challenging position. The promotion wants the superfight, the fans crave it, and Aspinall is more than ready. But Jones’ willingness remains the missing piece.

Will Jones finally accept the fight and risk his legacy against a rising threat? Or will the UFC be forced to move on, crowning a new champion in his absence? One thing is clear: until these two share the Octagon, the future of the UFC heavyweight division remains uncertain.

For now, Tom Aspinall’s message to Jon Jones is crystal clear: “The ball is in your court.”