Georges St-Pierre suggests that Tom Aspinall should cease his preoccupation with Jon Jones.
For over a year, Aspinall has sought a unification bout against Jones for the undisputed UFC heavyweight title, a pursuit that has encountered significant obstacles. Initially, the interim champion was bypassed in favor of Jon Jones facing Stipe Miocic last November. Current reports indicate that negotiations for a potential fight between Aspinall and Jones remain stalled, with the UFC reportedly considering having Aspinall defend his interim belt for a second time this summer. This situation is increasingly frustrating for Aspinall and his team, but St-Pierre advises against dwelling on it.
Speaking with Ariel Helwani, St-Pierre stated, “I believe Tom needs to concentrate on the immediate challenge. I recall making the mistake of focusing solely on getting revenge against Matt Serra after my loss, even though I had other fights scheduled first. If he`s only focused on Jon Jones, and Jones doesn`t return soon, he`s misplacing his attention. He must focus on what`s next, the path directly ahead. Everything else is a distraction.”
St-Pierre elaborated, “Things that are meant to happen will happen. I`m unsure of Jon`s plans, but as a fan, I`d love to witness that fight. Jon Jones is the greatest in terms of legacy and achievements. I understand Tom, as a proud fighter, wants to test himself against the best. However, it now hinges on Jon`s decision – if he still wishes to fight and if he receives fair compensation. Tom shouldn`t fixate on this, as it`s beyond his control, and he`s expending valuable energy on it.”
It`s understandable why Aspinall might feel frustrated. He now holds the record for the longest tenure as an interim champion in UFC history. Aspinall finds himself in an unprecedented position of waiting for Jones`s decision, with the UFC seemingly allowing Jones ample time. Nevertheless, St-Pierre encourages Aspinall to clear his mind of this situation.
St-Pierre advised, “While difficult, you need to mentally train yourself to focus intensely on the next task and cultivate hunger for it. By consistently focusing on the immediate next step, he will build his own legacy, and potentially, one day, become the greatest. He possesses all the necessary skills.”
St-Pierre also expressed empathy for Jones`s perspective. Having faced his own challenges with contract negotiations during his career, the welterweight icon understands the dynamics Jones is navigating.
“Many people desire this fight because they believe Tom is capable of solving Jon Jones`s puzzle,” St-Pierre said. “As a fan, I want to see it. I understand both sides. Jon wants to be compensated; it`s a negotiation, a strategic game. On the other hand, Tom is waiting. I grasp both viewpoints, but Tom must focus on his next opponent and clear his mind of the rest, concentrating solely on that.”
