The UFC heavyweight division has been buzzing with excitement and controversy following the recent shake-ups and statements from top fighters. Tom Aspinall's decisive knockout victory over Sergei Pavlovich to claim the interim title has undoubtedly positioned him as a force to be reckoned with. This win, coupled with his commanding performance at UFC 304 against Curtis Blaydes, has prompted Aspinall to assert his dominance in the heavyweight ranks.
One of the focal points of recent discussions has been the upcoming Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic bout. Initially scheduled for UFC 295 on November 11, 2023, the fight was postponed due to Jones withdrawing from the bout because of an injury. Subsequently, Miocic was also pulled from the card. Speculation suggests that this highly anticipated bout might be rescheduled for UFC 309 on November 16.
Tom Aspinall's Bold Statements
Aspinall has not minced words when it comes to his thoughts about Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. He argues that neither fighter represents the pinnacle of today's heavyweight division, a sentiment he has expressed very openly. "Let's be honest, and since I won that fight, he's gone completely quiet. He'll continue to go completely quiet about me until he retires. Because there's no way on Earth that he's going to fight me. Not a chance. I will retire Jon Jones without even fighting him," Aspinall declared.
His criticism doesn’t stop there. Aspinall has challenged anyone to find evidence that Jon Jones intends to fight him after facing Miocic. "I challenge anybody watching this interview to go and find the statement, quote, or a video where Jon Jones is saying that he'll fight me after he's fought Stipe. It doesn't exist," he remarked.
Jones' Retort and Future Plans
Despite Aspinall's criticisms, Jones has remained focused on his own career trajectory. "Maybe Tom will go on and beat Stipe's record one day. Right now I'm focusing on goat things. The beautiful thing about being in my position is I'm not defined by one fight. Most of you grew up watching me win," Jones stated, underlining his legacy in the sport.
The 37-year-old champion has admitted to being close to the end of his illustrious career. "I'm 37 years old now, I've kicked everyone's ass. My job is to finish strong and make an amazing movie. Go join Tom Brady, Floyd Mayweather and all the other retired bad asses," Jones commented, indicating his desire to conclude his career on a high note.
Critique of the Current Heavyweight Landscape
Aspinall has strong views on the current state of the heavyweight division. "They don't [explicit] deserve to be fighting for the heavyweight title. Them guys are not the top of the heavyweight division right now. Dana White and everybody else can say whatever they want, them guys aren't the best heavyweights in the world right now," Aspinall argued, taking a direct shot at both Jones and Miocic.
Feeling confident in his own standing, Aspinall has laid claim to being the rightful top contender. "I'm the guy at heavyweight, not him -- me. I want to be recognized as the best. I've got the real belt. I'm the one defending. He's defending against a 42-year-old Stipe Miocic with a million miles on the clock. If you want to be the real guy, you have to fight me," Aspinall asserted.
Fans' Perspective
As UFC fans eagerly await the rescheduled bout between Jones and Miocic, the heavyweight division is in a state of flux. Questions about who truly reigns supreme are more pronounced than ever, fueled by fighters like Aspinall who are not afraid to speak their minds.
Whether or not Jones and Miocic remain at the top of the division will be a topic of intense debate. For now, Aspinall's rising star and vocal presence promise an exciting future for heavyweight action in the UFC.