UFC CEO Dana White is always seen praising Jon Jones and terming him as the GOAT in history. But the interim champion, Tom Aspinall, has different views about this matter. Recently, Aspinall appeared on the Believe You Me podcast hosted by Michael Bisping and Anthony Smith, where he took shots at both White and Jon Jones. The interim champion refuses to believe White’s argument that Jones is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport. He also believes that the promotion is not giving him the opportunity to fight the heavyweight champion and said, “They are holding the belt hostage.”
Aspinall lashed out at the UFC CEO
The English fighter also believes that Jon Jones likes that the UFC President is often praising him in several interviews. Aspinall stated, “You are talking about bantamweights, Dana White turns it around and starts talking about how good Jones is. ‘Man, if he’s that good, let’s fight.”
Aspinall claims that he is taking a higher road and not addressing Jones’ behavior outside the Octagon. The heavyweight champion Jon Jones has been involved in various controversies, the most famous of which is a hit-and-run case involving a pregnant woman. Tom seemed to not involve himself in mentioning these incidents.
Aspinall also claimed that it is well documented that Jones is not the best person in the world. He further mentioned many failed drug test controversies involving “Bones.” Tom said he likes Stipe Miocic more because of this reason. The interim champion is officially the reserve fighter for the matchup between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. Aspinall said that he is willing to step up even on an hour’s notice to fight any of them and get the win. Aspinall admitted that “The Silencer” is his favorite over Jones despite believing that he should retire due to his old age.
The English fighter wants a heavyweight clash
Tom Aspinall agrees that Jones has had a great career in the light heavyweight division but can’t agree the same for his stint in the heavyweight division. The English fighter cited Jones’ win over Ciryl Gane as the reason behind his statement.
Bones once withdrew his fight against Stone Cold and has not defended his title since then. The last time Jon Jones stepped into the UFC octagon was on March 4, 2023. Now, Jones is set to face Miocic in November this year.
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Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall has recently scored a stunning win against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304. Since his victory, the Englishman has been demanding a heavyweight clash against Jones and has even called out the Heavyweight champion several times. Jones is rumored to retire after his clash against Miocic, so Aspinall might not be able to get the match he wants.
