Tom Aspinall, the interim UFC heavyweight champ, is getting a bit fed up, and honestly, who can blame him? He’s been fielding constant questions about a potential unification fight with Jon Jones, and at this point, he’s just as in the dark as the rest of us.

Aspinall’s frustration is understandable. He’s built a solid career in the UFC, and he doesn’t want to be known solely for talking about a fight that might not even happen. He recently took to his YouTube channel to set the record straight: he’s done his part.

“I’ve been staying away from the media and talking about Jon Jones a lot because in all honesty, I’m sick of talking about it myself,” Aspinall admitted. But, he felt it was necessary to address the misinformation floating around.

Here’s the gist: Aspinall wants the fight. He’s been in contact with the UFC, repeatedly expressing his desire to face Jon Jones for the undisputed heavyweight title.1 He’s ready to go, anytime, anywhere.

So, what’s the hold-up? According to Aspinall, the ball is firmly in Jon Jones’ court.

“What is holding it up right now is his side. That’s the truth of it,” he stated.

Remember, Jones last fought in November, defeating Stipe Miocic and then hinted at retirement or a super-fight with light heavyweight champ Alex Pereira. UFC CEO Dana White has suggested the Aspinall vs. Jones fight will happen in 2025, but details are scarce.

Aspinall has made it clear: he’s accepted the fight and is ready to go whenever and wherever the UFC decides, as long as the undisputed title is on the line. He’s done talking, and it’s time for Jones to make his move.

In short: Aspinall is ready. Is Jon Jones? We’re all waiting to find out.

Aspinall to Jones: Let's Get This Show on the Road (Or Not)

Tom Aspinall isn’t just waiting anymore; he’s actively pushing for answers. He’s made it crystal clear: the UFC wants the Jon Jones fight, and so does he. But the big question remains: does Jon Jones?

“The UFC really, really want the fight to happen,” Aspinall stated, emphasizing the organization’s eagerness. He believes the holdup boils down to Jones’ comfort level, particularly regarding the financial risk involved in facing him. “It’s just does he want to put himself in a position where he’s comfortable enough financially to take the risk that he’s taking to fight me? That is where we’re at.”

Aspinall reiterated that he’s ready and waiting, but the final decision rests with Jones and his team. “As far as I’m aware, this is totally down to Jon Jones and his team to work that out. Because I’m in. The UFC are in.”

Here’s the twist: Aspinall isn’t solely fixated on Jones. He’s hungry for the undisputed title, regardless of the opponent. If Jones isn’t interested or decides to retire, Aspinall is ready to face anyone, be it Ciryl Gane, Jailton Almeida, or anyone else the UFC puts in front of him.

“I’m not bothered who it’s against, to be honest, it’s not just the Jon Jones fight I’m looking for,” he explained. “I’m looking to fight. I’m in shape. I’ve been working hard.”

Aspinall’s priority is the undisputed belt. “One thing that I want to be really clear on, I am only fighting for the undisputed title. That’s my only discrepancy.” He’s confident in his abilities, stating, “I am the best heavyweight in the world and I just want a chance to prove it.”

He also understands the UFC’s desire for a Jones matchup due to its potential profitability. However, he’s frustrated with the division’s stagnation. “Right now it’s being held up and it’s not being held up by me. I want to fight. I need to fight for the undisputed heavyweight title because most of these other top 10 heavyweights I’ve beaten in the first round.”

Essentially, Aspinall is saying:

  • He’s ready for Jones, but it’s Jones’ call.
  • He’s ready for anyone, as long as it’s for the undisputed title.
  • He’s tired of waiting and wants the division to move forward.
  • He is ready to fight now.

Will we see this match happen, or will it be just a case of “could-have-been?”