UFC president Dana White has confirmed that UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones is now open to fighting interim titleholder Tom Aspinall, a significant step toward one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the year.
Jones, who defeated Stipe Miocic last November, had previously resisted calls to face Aspinall, insisting he was only interested in legacy bouts. However, White revealed at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference that the longtime champion is willing to enter negotiations for a title unification fight.
“Jon Jones definitely wants the fight,” White said. “Now we’re working on when and where.”
Aspinall has emerged as one of the most dominant heavyweights in recent years, winning all but one of his UFC fights inside the first round. In November 2023, he stepped in on two weeks’ notice to face Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 295, knocking out the Russian in just 69 seconds to claim the interim title.
He later defended the belt against Curtis Blaydes, securing his position as the division’s top contender.
Despite his rapid rise, Jones had previously dismissed a fight with the British star. However, White suggested that negotiations are now progressing. “Tom Aspinall is an absolute savage,” White said. “He’s dangerous, and he’s got people excited about the heavyweight division. That’s why this fight makes sense.”
Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists in history, returned from a three-year hiatus in 2023 to claim the heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane. While he has remained undefeated since first winning UFC gold in 2011, many believe Aspinall represents his toughest challenge yet.
The Brit has repeatedly called for a fight with Jones, remaining respectful but confident in his ability to win. “Hello Jon, I have nothing against you personally, but I just think I’m better than you,” Aspinall said after UFC 304. “I know I can beat you in a fight.”
While no official date or venue has been confirmed, White’s latest update suggests that talks are progressing. With both fighters now seemingly on board, fans await further developments as the UFC looks to book one of the biggest heavyweight fights in recent history.
