Interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall appears increasingly frustrated by the ongoing situation involving Jon Jones.
Aspinall, the interim titleholder, has repeatedly called for a unification bout against the undisputed champion. Despite Jones`s victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 in November, the highly anticipated matchup remains elusive seven months later.
During an appearance on the High Performance Podcast, Aspinall discussed what steps he could take to facilitate the fight.
“Personally, I don`t believe there`s anything more I can do,” Aspinall stated. “It seems to be primarily a financial matter for him. I`m ready to fight anytime, anywhere he prefers, but my sense is it`s about the money.”
He elaborated, “Considering where he is in his career – he`s had an incredible run – I just think… he`s around 37, maybe 38, but more significantly, he has a lot of wear and tear. He`s accumulated considerable damage, having absorbed many strikes to the head. I`m not stating this negatively; it`s simply the reality, and I`m confident Jon Jones recognizes this.”
After his win against Miocic, Jones indicated uncertainty about his future steps, leaving open the possibilities of retirement or a potential fight with Aspinall if the financial terms were right.
While Aspinall understands Jones`s desire to secure a substantial payout late in his career, he admitted he`s growing weary of the prolonged wait for Jones`s commitment and the constant inquiries about the situation.
“When you match him with someone – and I`m not trying to boast here, but statistically, I am arguably the most dangerous fighter in the UFC,” Aspinall explained. “Putting him against a fighter my size with my credentials at this point in his career… I believe Jon is intelligent and understands this, which is why he expects significant financial compensation.”
He concluded, “I`m completely over this [Jones conversation]. I`ve had enough of it. Either we need to make this fight happen, or I need to focus on other opportunities.”
