Daniel Cormier Endorses Jon Jones’ Choice for Next Fight
Strategic Matchmaking
Daniel Cormier has shown support for his former rival, UFC champion Jon Jones, in choosing to target a fight with light-heavyweight champion Alex Pereira instead of interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. Jon “Bones” Jones stirred emotions recently by expressing his preference for a title fight with Pereira over Aspinall, arguing that it would be a bigger, more lucrative match. This choice has highlighted Jones’ disregard for Aspinall as a competitor, suggesting that a matchup with Pereira is a higher priority.
Jones’ Calculated Move
Jon Jones has not competed since March 2023 when he clinched the heavyweight title by defeating Ciryl Gane. His initial plans for a title defense against Stipe Miocic were thwarted by an injury. Now, with verbal agreements reportedly in place for his first defense, Jones prefers to let UFC president Dana White make the official announcement. His comments about facing Pereira instead came shortly after these developments, displeasing fans and Aspinall alike. However, Cormier appreciates Jones’ strategic approach.
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Cormier’s Perspective
During an episode of Good Guy / Bad Guy, Cormier discussed the situation, stating, “Not everyone hits like Francis Ngannou or Alex Pereira. But if you can dodge that and manage it, it’s far less risky than fighting a guy with a complete set of skills like Tom Aspinall. I love what Jon is doing in terms of being smart and picking the right fights.” He added, “Athletes today are much smarter than before, and I think that makes the sport even more interesting. I love it. I love what Jon is doing. I love what Alex is doing. But I think Jon is saying, ‘I’m not going to fight Tom Aspinall. Have you seen Tom Aspinall?'”
The Potential Fallout
Choosing Pereira over Aspinall could be a surprising move that might also diminish the significance of the interim title. Aspinall, who knocked out Sergei Pavlovich in November to win the interim title, has seen his chances to compete for the real title diminish. He now sets his sights on UFC 304 in Manchester, England, though his opponent remains unconfirmed.
Your Thoughts?
Who do you think Jon Jones should face next?
Quotes
Daniel Cormier on Good Guy / Bad Guy: “Not everyone hits like Francis Ngannou or Alex Pereira. But if you can dodge that and manage it, it’s far less risky than fighting a guy with a complete set of skills like Tom Aspinall. I love what Jon is doing in terms of being smart and picking the right fights.”
Cormier on athletes’ intelligence in the sport: “Athletes today are much smarter than before, and I think that makes the sport even more interesting. I love it. I love what Jon is doing. I love what Alex is doing. But I think Jon is saying, ‘I’m not going to fight Tom Aspinall. Have you seen Tom Aspinall?'”
