Jon Jones’ GOAT Status Under Fire: Is He Ducking Tom Aspinall?
The debate over who deserves the title of MMA’s Greatest of All Time (GOAT) has taken another contentious turn. Jon Jones, often included in that conversation, is facing renewed criticism as many fans and analysts believe he’s deliberately avoiding a showdown with rising heavyweight star Tom Aspinall.
The Heavyweight Title Controversy
Jones currently holds the UFC heavyweight championship belt, but there’s a problem – Tom Aspinall is the interim champion, creating a situation where the division effectively has two champions. This unusual circumstance has only intensified the scrutiny on Jones, with many questioning why he hasn’t pushed to unify the titles.
I’ve been covering MMA for over a decade, and I’ve rarely seen a champion receive this much backlash for fight selection. The criticism isn’t just coming from fans on social media; it’s echoing throughout the industry.
Is Jones Protecting His Legacy?
Let’s be real – at 36 years old, Jones is in the twilight of his fighting career. After dominating the light heavyweight division for years, he moved up to heavyweight and defeated Ciryl Gane to claim the vacant title. His next fight is scheduled against former champion Stipe Miocic, another fighter in the later stages of his career.
Meanwhile, Aspinall represents a new generation of heavyweight – younger, faster, and possessing a dangerous combination of knockout power and submission skills. The 31-year-old Brit has been tearing through the division, most recently demolishing Curtis Blaydes to claim the interim title.
The Tale of the Tape: Jones vs. Aspinall
| Fighter | Age | Record | Last Fight | Fighting Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jon Jones | 36 | 27-1 (1 NC) | Win vs. Ciryl Gane (Submission) | Well-rounded with wrestling focus |
| Tom Aspinall | 31 | 14-3 | Win vs. Curtis Blaydes (KO) | Explosive striking with BJJ background |
The UFC’s Role in This Controversy
The UFC hasn’t exactly pushed for this matchup either. Dana White has repeatedly defended Jones’ decision to fight Miocic next, citing the historical significance of a matchup between two of the most accomplished champions in UFC history.
But isn’t the sport supposed to be about determining who the best fighter is right now? Not who had the best career a few years ago?
What Fans Are Saying
The response from MMA fans has been overwhelming – and not in Jones’ favor. Social media is filled with accusations that “Bones” is cherry-picking opponents to preserve his legacy rather than facing the most dangerous challenges.
One tweet that went viral last week summed it up perfectly: “Can’t be the GOAT if you’re afraid to fight the best available opponent. Period.”
The GOAT Conversation
This situation raises an interesting question about how we determine the GOAT in combat sports. Is it about longevity? Total title defenses? Quality of opposition? Or willingness to face anyone at any time?
For many, that last point is becoming increasingly important in Jones’ case. While his in-cage achievements are undeniable, his reluctance to face Aspinall is becoming a significant asterisk on his resume.
Other GOAT Contenders
Meanwhile, other GOAT contenders like Georges St-Pierre, Demetrious Johnson, and Khabib Nurmagomedov don’t carry the same baggage. GSP even came out of retirement to move up a weight class and capture a second title – exactly the kind of challenge Jones seems to be avoiding.
What’s Next for Heavyweight Division?
The UFC heavyweight division is essentially in limbo. Jones is set to face Miocic later this year, while Aspinall waits in the wings. The most likely scenario is that Jones will retire after the Miocic fight, regardless of the outcome, leaving Aspinall to be crowned the undisputed champion without ever getting his shot at Jones.
And that’s a shame for fans who want to see the best fight the best.
The Fan Perspective
As a longtime MMA journalist and fan, I understand the disappointment. We watch this sport to see questions answered definitively in the cage, not through matchmaking politics and strategic avoidance.
Whether Jones wants to admit it or not, his legacy is taking a hit with each day that passes without him addressing the Aspinall situation directly.
Final Thoughts: Legacy On The Line
Jon Jones has accomplished nearly everything possible in MMA. He’s been dominant, innovative, and consistently excellent inside the octagon. But how he handles this final chapter will significantly impact how history remembers him.
Will he be remembered as the undisputed greatest fighter of all time? Or as someone who was calculating about which challenges he accepted and which ones he avoided?
The ball is in your court, Jon. What’s it going to be?
Source: Bloody Elbow