Tom Aspinall is not concerned about waiting for a fight with Jon Jones.
Aspinall has been openly seeking a match against Jones to unify their UFC heavyweight titles. Aspinall, currently ranked No. 1 in the heavyweight division, secured the interim belt by defeating Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 295. This fight occurred because a planned bout between Jones and Stipe Miocic was postponed due to Jones` injury.
Jones previously claimed the vacant undisputed title at UFC 285 after Francis Ngannou`s departure and defended it against Miocic at UFC 309. Aspinall has also defended his interim title once during this period. Jones, a former three-time light heavyweight champion, has often downplayed Aspinall`s worthiness as a challenger.
Last Saturday in London, Aspinall and his team met with UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell. Following these discussions, Aspinall feels more optimistic, although it remains unclear whether the UFC is planning a fight against Jones for him or another opponent.
“We had a good meeting and discussed everything,” Aspinall mentioned on The Ariel Helwani Show. “Hunter has always been very approachable and reasonable with me. Our meeting was fantastic, and I now understand my position and the company`s plans. There will be significant news coming, so stay tuned.”
When asked if things were progressing positively, Aspinall confirmed, stating he is excited about the future and unconcerned about the time since his last fight against Curtis Blaydes in July.
“After the meeting, I feel very optimistic about everything,” Aspinall said. “I am in a great position regarding my future. These are exciting times.”
“The break isn`t that long, to be honest. People say Jon Jones is holding up my career, but it’s only been seven months, which isn`t too bad. I can`t reveal too much, but exciting things are coming.”
While Aspinall didn`t share specific details of his conversation with Campbell, and didn`t confirm if Jones was the main topic, he emphasized his desire to be recognized as the undisputed No. 1 heavyweight in the UFC.
“Of course, I want to fight,” Aspinall stated. “But it must be the right fight, and as I`ve said before, I deserve a shot at the undisputed heavyweight title. This is my priority, even more than money. My goal is to be the undisputed heavyweight champion, and I am working towards it.”
“I’m not just relaxing at home; I`m training in the gym daily. I`m in a good place. I would prefer to fight sooner, but I believe things happen for a reason, and the timing will be right.”
He also confirmed he doesn`t intend to defend the interim title again.
Regarding Jones publicly asking for “`f*ck you` money” to fight Aspinall, the British fighter understands this aspect of negotiations.
“I agree that he deserves to earn a lot of money because of his accomplishments,” Aspinall said.
Aspinall attended UFC London and playfully responded to the ongoing joke that Jones is avoiding a fight with him by holding a toy duck when shown on camera. He clarified the gesture was lighthearted fun.
“No, I just like ducks,” Aspinall joked. “I always carry a duck with me, just in case. Of course, it was just a bit of fun, a little playful banter.”
