Paddy Pimblett Backs Jon Jones Over Tom Aspinall: “Jon’s the Greatest of All Time”
In the world of MMA, nationality usually runs deep, but sometimes greatness transcends borders. Liverpool’s own Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett just proved that point in spectacular fashion, choosing the American legend Jon Jones over his fellow Englishman Tom Aspinall in their potential heavyweight showdown.
I’ve been covering the fight game for years, and let me tell you – this is a rare moment when UK solidarity takes a backseat to what many consider undeniable GOAT status.
When National Pride Meets MMA Reality
“I’m always going to pick the English fighter,” Pimblett admitted in a recent interview that’s got the MMA world buzzing. “But not against Jon Jones. Jon’s the greatest of all time.”
Strong words from The Baddy, who’s typically the first to wave the Union Jack when a compatriot enters the cage. But this endorsement speaks volumes about Jones’ standing in the sport, even among fighters who share the same homeland as his potential opponent.
The Heavyweight Puzzle: Jones vs. Aspinall
While UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones is currently preparing for his March showdown with Stipe Miocic, interim champ Tom Aspinall has been making serious noise. The Manchester native has demolished everyone in his path, most recently flattering Sergei Pavlovich in a first-round TKO that had the London crowd losing their minds.
Yet Pimblett sees things clearly: “Jon would just take him down and elbow through his head.”
Brutal assessment? Maybe. But Paddy’s not alone in this thinking.
| Fighter | Current Status | Recent Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Jon Jones | Undisputed Heavyweight Champion | Dominated Ciryl Gane in Round 1 submission |
| Tom Aspinall | Interim Heavyweight Champion | KO’d Sergei Pavlovich in 69 seconds |
The GOAT Debate Rages On
What makes Jones’ position so unique is that even fighters who should theoretically support their countrymen can’t deny his legendary status. With a record that includes victories over multiple generations of light heavyweight contenders and now heavyweight dominance, Jones’ resume stands alone.
Pimblett, never one to mince words, put it plainly: “Jon Jones is just different.”
And that’s coming from a guy who bleeds English pride.
Will This Fight Ever Happen?
The MMA community is desperate to see Jones face Aspinall after the Miocic fight, assuming Bones emerges victorious. But will Dana White make it happen? The UFC president has been typically non-committal, leaving fans and fighters alike wondering if this dream matchup will materialize.
What we do know is this: when a fighter like Paddy Pimblett chooses the American legend over his English brother-in-arms, we’re talking about a special kind of greatness that transcends national loyalty.
What’s Your Take?
Do you agree with Paddy’s assessment? Would Jones dominate Aspinall, or is the English interim champ the one to finally dethrone the pound-for-pound king? Drop your thoughts in the comments section below!
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Source: Vox Media