UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall is making his impatience clear regarding the long-awaited potential title unification bout against Jon Jones. Despite Aspinall holding the interim belt and expressing a strong desire to face Jones, and with Jones having competed seven months ago, the fight seems no closer to being scheduled.
When questioned on the High Performance Podcast about what steps he could take to make the fight happen, Aspinall stated he believes the ball is entirely in Jones` court, primarily related to financial terms. Aspinall reiterated his willingness to fight Jones “whenever, wherever he wants,” but feels the delay stems from monetary considerations.
Aspinall offered his perspective on Jones` situation, acknowledging his incredible career but pointing out that at approximately 37 or 38 years old, Jones has significant “mileage” on his body from years of high-level fighting. He clarified this observation about the physical toll, including shots absorbed, is not meant negatively but is simply a realistic assessment of a veteran fighter`s condition.
Following Jones` victory over Stipe Miocic, the path forward for the undisputed champion remained uncertain, with retirement being an option or potentially a lucrative fight, possibly against Aspinall, provided the compensation is substantial enough. Aspinall admits he understands Jones` motivation to secure a major payday towards the end of his legendary career.
However, the waiting and constant speculation are taking their toll. Aspinall, who highlighted statistics positioning him as arguably the most dangerous fighter in the UFC currently, suspects Jones is smart enough to recognize the challenge he presents, thus seeking significant financial reward for undertaking such a risk. Aspinall concluded with a definitive statement: he is “well bored” and has “had enough” of the situation. The time has come, he stressed, for the fight to be booked, or he will have to turn his attention to other opponents.
