Aspinall Gets Title Shot at UFC 304 – Jon Jones Uninterested in Unification
Tom Aspinall is gearing up for a crucial bout at UFC 304 in Manchester, England, but the question on everyone’s mind is whether Jon Jones will ever unify the heavyweight title with the winner.
Jones Focused on Miocic
Jon Jones (27-1 MMA, 21-1 UFC), currently recovering from an injury, is set to defend his title against former champion Stipe Miocic (20-4 MMA, 14-4 UFC) on November 9 at Madison Square Garden in New York. Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time, has hinted at a potential retirement after this fight, making a future unification bout unlikely.
Aspinall’s Rising Star
Tom Aspinall (14-3 MMA, 7-1 UFC) has quickly climbed the ranks with impressive performances in the octagon. The British fighter has showcased exceptional speed and skill for his size, making him a fan favorite. His recent victory over Curtis Blaydes demonstrated that he is a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division.
Aspinall has expressed doubts about Jones ever facing him. – If I win, I don’t think Jon will fight me, Aspinall said. – He’s looking for the biggest names and the easiest fights to cement his legacy.
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Blaydes’ Perspective
Curtis Blaydes (18-4 MMA, 13-4 UFC), who recently lost to Aspinall, shares the sentiment that Jon Jones will avoid facing the winner of Aspinall’s next fight. – Whether I win or Aspinall wins, I don’t think Jon will fight anyone other than Stipe, Blaydes stated. – After Stipe, he’ll likely retire. He likes to throw out different scenarios to keep people talking, but I don’t think he would risk his legacy against any of us.
Blaydes emphasized that Jones is adept at using social media to maintain his relevance and understands the importance of a constant online presence. – He knows what he’s doing. But do I honestly believe he would risk his legacy against a guy like me? No. If he beats me, what does it do for his legacy?
Aspinall’s View on the Title
For Aspinall, the UFC 304 bout is an opportunity to prove he is the rightful champion, regardless of Jones’ decision. – That’s how I view it (as an undisputed title fight), Aspinall said. – When I told my family and friends, “I’m fighting for a belt,” I didn’t say interim belt. I said a belt. To me, it is the real belt.
Curtis versus Tom for the official number one contender spot! 🙌🏾😌
— BONY (@JonnyBones) May 17, 2024
I’m definitely not retired. Sitting on my porch sore all over enjoying some time in the Metaverse. November 9 can’t come soon enough. I’m earning it every day. Just like I always have. https://t.co/wskChxw4j3
— BONY (@JonnyBones) May 17, 2024
Trolls telling me I’m slowing down the division by getting injured. Meanwhile, the next two heavyweights aren’t even a main event? interesting. I’m on the right path, I got until November to remind the world. Again.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) May 17, 2024
The Future of the Heavyweight Division
With Jones’ potential retirement looming after the Miocic fight, the heavyweight division could face a period of uncertainty. Blaydes believes Jones will prolong his retirement to maintain his hold on the title for as long as possible. – It won’t be a smooth transition of power, Blaydes said. – He will “retire” unofficially, but won’t officially retire for who knows how long. As long as the UFC allows him to drag it out, he will.
Regardless of what happens, fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting matchup at UFC 304 and hoping to see a clear heavyweight champion emerge soon.
