The most in-demand matchup in the heavyweight division right now is Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall. There has been much debate on whether this dream fight would ever make it to the octagon. However, UFC CEO, Dana White is here to confirm that the showdown is very likely possible. Here is what happened:
Dana White recently addressed rumors that Jon Jones was avoiding a fight with Tom Aspinall at the DWCS press conference. The UFC CEO confirmed that Jon Jones is open to fighting the interim champion, dismissing the idea that Jones was hesitant to fight the Brit. The UFC head honcho stated that if Jones defeats Stipe Miocic, in their upcoming matchup, he would likely face Aspinall.
There is no way in hell that Jon Jones doesn’t want to fight Aspinall. So that I guarantee you. Jon Jones will fight everybody.
Dana White on DWCS Press conference
According to White, Jones thrives on challenges and is not afraid to take on tough opponents, even as he considers retirement. White is confident that the UFC will make this fight happen, emphasizing that Jones never backs down from a challenge.
While Jones has hinted at possible retirement after his upcoming fight with Miocic, White remains firm that the UFC will do whatever it takes to get him to fight Aspinall, possibly in 2025. Therefore, it will be interesting to see where that debate goes from now on, especially when the heavyweight champion keeps hinting at retirement.
Jon Jones reveals plan to compete at the ADCC in 2026
Jon Jones recently expressed interest in competing at the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) World Championships. The UFC heavyweight champion has specifically aimed for the 2026 event in his recent tweet on X. His interest was sparked after attending the ADCC 2024 event, which he found to be incredible.
Although he is still an active MMA fighter, the internet has seen more and more of Jon Jones contemplating his post-MMA career. ADCC could be a significant part of that. Jones, who has a strong grappling background, is not new to submission grappling. He is a former NCJAA wrestling champion and has previously competed in grappling events, including a notable victory over Dan Henderson in a Submission Underground super fight.
The idea of competing at ADCC in 2026 has been flowing through the head nonstop since this weekend. What an amazing event.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) August 20, 2024
Moreover, he has trained with top grapplers like Gordon Ryan, further solidifying his credentials for the ADCC, which is one of the most prestigious events in the world of submission grappling. Given his stature in the MMA world, it is likely that Jones would receive an invitation to compete at ADCC rather than going through the qualification trials. If he does compete, it will be interesting to see how the MMA superstar fares in this new phase of his career.
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