Tom Aspinall: Title Shot Regret & Jon Jones Respect
- Tom Aspinall, the current UFC heavyweight champion, has addressed Jon Jones' recent retirement from mixed martial arts.
- Aspinall had previously won the interim title in November 2023 and defended it in July 2024, eagerly awaiting a chance to solidify his position against Jones (28-1).
- "I was never actually chasing Jon, I was chasing the heavyweight title," Aspinall said.
Tom Aspinall, the current UFC heavyweight champion, is prioritizing his role as the undisputed titleholder. He offers support to Jon Jones following his retirement.The Englishman expressed a touch of disappointment at missing a potential unification bout with Jones, but his focus firmly remains on defending his heavyweight title. Aspinall, who secured the title after Jones’ retirement, is now shifting his focus to solidify his position as champion. News Directory 3 understands the dynamic shifts within the UFC. Aspinall, aiming for two title defenses this year, solidifies his ambitions. Discover what’s next for Aspinall’s championship journey.
Aspinall Reflects on Jones’ Retirement, Eyes Heavyweight Title Role
Updated June 28, 2025
Tom Aspinall, the current UFC heavyweight champion, has addressed Jon Jones’ recent retirement from mixed martial arts. Aspinall (15-3) stated he wishes Jones well and is now solely focused on his role as the undisputed champion. The 32-year-old Englishman secured the title after Jones, 37, chose to retire rather of facing him in a unification bout.
Aspinall had previously won the interim title in November 2023 and defended it in July 2024, eagerly awaiting a chance to solidify his position against Jones (28-1). Despite the missed opportunity, Aspinall said he views himself as the true champion and is ready to move forward.
“I was never actually chasing Jon, I was chasing the heavyweight title,” Aspinall said. “What was vital to me was being the best in the world… it would have been a great scalp that would have propelled me more than any other fight, but a fight’s a fight. I’m not too bothered.”
Jones, often considered one of the greatest fighters, faces legal troubles, including a pending court appearance next month in Albuquerque, N.M., related to a February incident. Aspinall extended his best wishes to Jones, acknowledging his personal struggles.
“Whatever he has going on in his life, I wish him the best of luck,” aspinall said. “If he feels like he’s done enough and he can be content with that, then God bless him.”
What’s next
Aspinall anticipates defending his heavyweight crown soon and aims to compete twice before the year’s end, solidifying his role as champion.