The debate surrounding Jon Jones’ status as the greatest fighter of all time (GOAT) has taken a dramatic turn, with accusations that the UFC heavyweight champion is avoiding a showdown with interim champion Tom Aspinall. While Jones has been sidelined due to injury, his reluctance to acknowledge Aspinall as his next challenger has sparked controversy among fans, fighters, and analysts alike.
Now, UFC commentators Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier (DC) have added their voices to the discussion, questioning whether Jones is deliberately sidestepping one of the most dangerous matchups of his career.
Jon Jones’ Absence: Injury or Avoidance?
Jon Jones made his long-awaited heavyweight debut in March 2023, submitting Ciryl Gane in the first round to claim the undisputed heavyweight title. The victory cemented his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. However, since then, Jones has not defended his belt.
Initially, he was scheduled to face former heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 295, but a torn pectoral muscle forced him to withdraw. Instead of setting up a fight for a new champion, the UFC introduced an interim title, which was won by British standout Tom Aspinall after he knocked out Sergei Pavlovich in just over a minute.
Since then, Aspinall has repeatedly called for a unification fight against Jones, arguing that a true champion should be willing to face all challengers. However, Jones has remained noncommittal, repeatedly insisting that his focus remains on fighting Miocic—despite Miocic’s inactivity and advanced age.
This has led to growing speculation that Jones is avoiding Aspinall, who is younger, faster, and arguably the most well-rounded fighter in the heavyweight division today.
Joe Rogan & Daniel Cormier Weigh In
As the controversy continues to grow, UFC analysts and former fighters have started to speak out on the matter.
On a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan addressed the situation, praising Aspinall’s skills and suggesting that Jones might not be eager to test himself against such a dangerous opponent.
“Tom Aspinall is a freak of nature. He’s incredibly fast, moves like a middleweight, and has knockout power. He’s the kind of guy who could pose real problems for Jon Jones, and I think Jon knows that,” Rogan said.
Rogan also pointed out that Jones has always been extremely strategic about the fights he takes, often waiting for the right timing before stepping into the octagon.
Meanwhile, Daniel Cormier, a former two-division champion and Jones’ longtime rival, was even more direct in his assessment. Speaking on DC & RC, Cormier suggested that Jones’ reluctance to fight Aspinall could tarnish his legacy.
“Jon has always said he wants to be considered the greatest. Well, if that’s the case, you take on all comers, especially the most dangerous guy in your division. Right now, that’s Tom Aspinall,” Cormier stated.
Cormier also noted that Jones has a history of picking fights strategically, mentioning that he waited years before moving up to heavyweight when the division was less stacked with elite talent.
What’s Next for Jon Jones?
With the UFC expected to finalize Jones’ next opponent in the coming months, the pressure is mounting. While Jones and UFC president Dana White have continued to push for a fight against Miocic, fans are demanding that the division moves forward with a true championship unification bout against Aspinall.
If Jones refuses to fight Aspinall, questions will continue to linger about whether he is truly willing to face the toughest competition at heavyweight. On the other hand, if he does accept the fight and manages to defeat Aspinall, it would further cement his status as the GOAT.
For now, the MMA world waits for an answer. Will Jon Jones rise to the challenge, or will he continue to dodge one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the sport?
