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Why Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic Seem to Be Avoiding Tom Aspinall
As the heavyweight division edges closer to UFC 309’s headliner between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, it’s hard not to notice the elephant in the room: Tom Aspinall. While Jones may hold the heavyweight title, and Miocic is a former champion returning for one last shot, British contender Tom Aspinall has been racking up wins, positioning himself as a dominant force and fan-favorite who could give either of these legends a serious run for their money. With Jones and Miocic both rumored to retire after their Madison Square Garden showdown on November 15, it’s increasingly looking like they’re trying to avoid facing the division’s most electrifying new contender.
Miocic’s Long Absence and Aspinall’s Rise
Stipe Miocic (20-4-0) last fought in March 2021, a night that ended in a knockout loss to Francis Ngannou and saw him relinquish the heavyweight title. Since then, Miocic’s name has echoed in the division more for his absence than his accomplishments, while Tom Aspinall (15-3-0) has been making his case as the next big thing in heavyweight MMA. Aspinall’s record since Miocic’s departure speaks volumes: he’s gone 5-1, won the interim title, and defended it with style. He’s fast, skilled, and, at 31, entering his prime.
Aspinall’s success has left many fans wondering why Jones (27-1-0, 1NC) and Miocic aren’t eager to give him a shot. Jones, known for taking on the toughest challenges throughout his career, now appears to be avoiding the one man who might challenge his dominance in the division.
The “Bigger Fight” Debate
Stipe Miocic recently remarked in an interview with MMA Fighting that fans are more interested in seeing his showdown with Jones than a Jones-Aspinall matchup. Miocic may have a point about the legacy appeal of two of the sport’s greatest champions going head-to-head, but that appeal is largely tied to nostalgia. For many in the MMA world, a Jones vs. Aspinall fight represents the future — a test of whether the old guard can withstand the new.
Aspinall’s Role as the Backup Fighter
Interestingly, the UFC has assigned Aspinall as the official backup fighter for UFC 309, meaning he’ll step in if either Jones or Miocic pulls out. This not only validates Aspinall’s standing in the division but also seems to subtly pressure Jones and Miocic to acknowledge his presence. Aspinall isn’t just waiting quietly on the sidelines; in a recent YouTube video, he announced plans to make his presence known at UFC 309. Aspinall joked about “causing a few scenes” and made it clear he intends to do everything he can to persuade the winner to fight him.
The Roadmap to the Title
Aspinall’s ambitions go beyond UFC 309. In an interview with TNT Sports, he shared that he’s already spoken with the UFC about a “roadmap” for the heavyweight title in 2025. This plan could involve a showdown with the winner of Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov at UFC 310. Aspinall’s relentless push to secure his place at the top is a sharp contrast to Jones and Miocic’s possible retirement plans, casting them as veterans who might be more interested in ending their careers on their terms than in facing the division’s best new talent.
Are Jones and Miocic Ducking Tom Aspinall?
The fact that Jones and Miocic could both retire after UFC 309, potentially leaving without facing the likes of Aspinall, only adds to the suspicion. Aspinall is hungry, in his prime, and equipped with the skills to challenge any heavyweight. If Jones and Miocic choose to walk away after their fight, many fans will see it as an avoidance of the hardest challenge left in the division.
As we wait for UFC 309, one thing is clear: Aspinall’s shadow looms large over the heavyweight division, and his callout isn’t going away. Whether Jones or Miocic decides to answer it may be the real question for 2025. Fight.TV is here for it!
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