Over the past few months, there have been ongoing discussions about a potential fight between UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall. Recently, former UFC champion and legend Michael Bisping commented on this matchup. As such, he has expressed strong criticism towards Jones during the discussion.
Tom Aspinall has even made several callouts to the UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones for it. However, Jones is currently scheduled to fight former heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic. Interestingly, like many others, Michael Bisping is also expecting ‘Bones’ to fight Aspinall following that. However, if he doesn’t do that, Bisping has called for an immediate title strip of the heavyweight champion.
When he fights Stipe Miocic and if he is victorious, and then he has to face Tom Aspinall next… If he doesn’t, this is, in the words of Khabib Nurmagomedov, number one bullsh**… If he refuses to fight Tom Aspinall next, then we’re gonna start having a serious conversation as to whether or not this man should be stripped…
Michael Bisping on his official YouTube channel
The heavyweight champion has consistently dismissed the notion of fighting the interim champion. Recently, Jon Jones explained his reasoning, stating that he does not consider Tom Aspinall’s performances in the UFC to be impressive enough.
Jones believes that Aspinall needs to accomplish something significant before he can challenge him for a fight. Following this comment, Aspinall took another shot at the heavyweight champion. This back-and-forth between the two fighters has been ongoing for quite some time.
👀😳Michael Bisping thinks Jon Jones should be stripped of his title if he beats Stipe Miocic and refuses to fight Tom Aspinall next:
“When he fights Stipe Miocic and if he is victorious, then he has to face Tom Aspinall next…
If he doesn’t, this is, in the words of Khabib… pic.twitter.com/jpTsIMWthZ
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) November 8, 2024
Despite facing multiple backlashes and accusations of avoiding Aspinall, Jones remains confident that he is on the right track. As such, at 37 years old, the heavyweight champion is now focused solely on legacy fights. Recently, he mentioned wanting to pursue another legacy fight after his upcoming bout against Miocic at UFC 309.
Jon Jones is set to either retire or fight Alex Pereira after UFC 309
Jon Jones is one of the standout fighters in the UFC. Throughout his career, he has delivered numerous exceptional performances that contribute to his current status. Now, at 37 years old, Bones is hinting at retirement. This has led to speculation that his next outing might be his last. However, there is still room for change regarding this decision.
Recently, the UFC heavyweight champion discussed his future after UFC 309. Interestingly, according to Jones, he has not yet made a decision. However, he clearly stated that everything depends on the outcome of his fight against Miocic at UFC 309. In the midst of this, Jones also hinted at a potential matchup with UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.
My goal is to have a flawless performance. A really dominant performance and to either retire or to fight against possibly Alex Pereira in a mega fight. Whether it’s for the belt or not. I don’t need anymore belts. I just think fighting (Alex) Pereira would be awesome…
Jon Jones via UFC broadcast (h/t: Jed I. Goodman)
Jon Jones: My goal is to have a flawless performance. A really dominant performance. And, to either retire or to fight against possibly Alex Pereira in a mega fight. Whether it’s for the fight belt or not, I don’t need anymore belts. pic.twitter.com/Oh65OTXUPy
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) November 9, 2024
Many prominent figures in the UFC community have speculated that Jones might reconsider his retirement plans for a potential fight with Alex Pereira. Recently, both fighters hinted that something could be in the works between them. Now, it remains to be seen how things will develop following UFC 309.
