Jon Jones playfully mocked Tom Aspinall on social media, dismissing the possibility of a fight between them while asserting his own superiority and expressing no urgency to return to competition.
Jon Jones had a bit of fun on social media at Tom Aspinall’s expense. Yet, a fight between them seems no closer to reality.
Earlier this week, Aspinall, the interim UFC heavyweight champ, wished Jones well in “retirement.” He even declared himself the undisputed champion, moving on from a potential Jones fight.
Jones took to Twitter, sharing his thoughts on Aspinall’s fighting résumé. “That’s awesome, you guys could use [a heavyweight champion],” he quipped in response to a fan.
Jones didn’t hold back, remarking, “My boy is not as special as his fan base thinks.” He pointed out Aspinall’s past losses, predicting a fleeting career.
In a twist, Jones corrected himself, admitting he mixed up Aspinall’s losses. “Turns out it was just once… by a guy everyone calls Cousin Earl,” he tweeted.
When asked how he’d beat Aspinall, Jones simply stated he already had—by not giving him a chance to fight. Classic Jones.
After a long hiatus, Jones returned to the octagon as a heavyweight, capturing the title with a swift submission of Ciryl Gane at UFC 285. Injuries sidelined him again, but he returned to knock out Stipe Miocic.
Meanwhile, Aspinall has been holding his own, becoming the longest reigning interim champion since defeating Sergei Pavlovich. He defended his belt with a rapid victory over Curtis Blaydes.
Jones continued tweeting, hinting at a lack of urgency to fight Aspinall or anyone else. Is he playing mind games?
Reflecting on critics, Jones recalled, “Three years since anyone saw me fight.” He proved doubters wrong with his triumphant return.
Jones mused about his future, questioning how much higher he could climb in the sport. “It’s about building a brand,” he noted.
He revealed discussions with the UFC about his future, suggesting it’s in their interest to keep him as the champion. “I’ve just been playing the role,” he confessed.
In a cheeky tweet, Jones referred to himself as “Duck boy,” sticking it to the haters. Quack quack, indeed.
Admitting his age, Jones shared, “I’m 37 years old now. My body hurts everywhere.” He noted Aspinall’s lack of trash talk towards top fighters of his generation.
Jones emphasized his autonomy, saying, “You can’t strip a guy like me. I give the belt up freely. Veni, vidi, vici.”
He offered advice to Aspinall, suggesting he focus on being the best heavyweight of all time. “My career is on a completely different planet,” Jones stated.
In the end, Jones wished Aspinall well, asserting he holds no ill will. Just some friendly advice from one fighter to another.