Over the years, there have been several standout fighters in the UFC heavyweight division. The debate over who stands out as the best among them has always remained an intriguing topic. Currently, Jon Jones, Tom Aspinall, and Francis Ngannou are three notable names in this division. In light of this, a top MMA analyst has proposed a solution to determine the best heavyweight fighter.
Jon Jones is currently the UFC heavyweight champion, while Tom Aspinall holds the interim heavyweight title. Additionally, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou was a significant figure in the division. Although Ngannou has left the UFC, his influence on the division continues to resonate within the community. As a result, top MMA analyst Dan Hardy pitches in an intriguing matchup.
I think Jon Jones is the pound-for-pound best… But is he the best current heavyweight on the planet? I don‘t think so. I think the winner of (Tom) Aspinall versus (Francis) Ngannou would be the answer, and it‘s speed versus power.
Dan Hardy via MMA Fighting
Despite including Ngannou in his discussion, Hardy overlooked Jones when talking about the best heavyweight fighter. Over the years, “Bones” has built an impressive career in the UFC. He has defeated many formidable opponents, establishing a strong reputation. However, most of his victories were earned while competing as a light heavyweight. He does not have a lasting legacy in the heavyweight division.
Dan Hardy argues the best heavyweight comes down to Francis Ngannou or Tom Aspinall:
“No disrespect in any way to Jon [Jones]. Current heavyweight champion but not the current best heavyweight on the planet. Certainly not.”
(🎥: @DamonMartin) pic.twitter.com/8YuMiY1ObU
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) December 1, 2024
Unlike Jones, both Aspinall and Ngannou have fought exclusively as heavyweight fighters in the UFC. Aspinall, the interim UFC heavyweight champion, has an impressive record with only one loss in the promotion. On the other hand, Ngannou has defeated several of the top heavyweight fighters in the world, while Jones has only fought twice in the heavyweight division.
Therefore, a potential matchup between Aspinall and Ngannou would be the best way to determine who is the top heavyweight fighter. Additionally, this isn’t the first time that Hardy has voiced criticism against the reigning UFC heavyweight champion.
Dan Hardy unhappy with Jon Jones snubbing Tom Aspinall
In recent discussions regarding the UFC, there has been considerable talk about a potential fight between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall. The interim UFC heavyweight champion has long expressed a desire for a title unification match against Jones. However, Jones has consistently shown a lack of interest in facing Aspinall. His reluctance and one particular explanation did not sit well with Dan Hardy.
Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall together (Image via X)Hardy is a former UFC fighter, known for his outspoken nature, Hardy isn’t afraid to express his opinions, even when they go against top UFC fighters. Recently, Jones responded to Aspinall’s repeated calls for title unification by stating that the British fighter would not have any impact on his legacy. However, Hardy seemed to disagree with Jones’s comments and shared his reasons for doing so.
I don‘t think it was good for his brand to say those things about Tom (Aspinall). What I want from a champ in any division especially the heavyweight champion, I want them to say, ‘Any person, put them in front of me, I‘ll destroy them.‘ Because that‘s what we want the heavyweight champ to be.
Dan Hardy via Submission Radio
Hardy believes that Jones should fight Aspinall. Interestingly, the heavyweight champion hasn’t completely dismissed the possibility of a matchup against the interim champion. According to Jones, he is open to the fight, but only if the UFC offers him a substantial amount of money. Despite interest from UFC CEO Dana White, only time will tell if the dream fight happens or not.
