Jon Jones’ Next Fight: Dana White Confirms Tom Aspinall as Likely Opponent

As UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones prepares to defend his title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 on November 17, speculation about his next opponent has been rampant. UFC President and CEO Dana White has clarified that if Jones emerges victorious, his next fight will be against current interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall[2][3].

White’s statement, made on The Jim Rome Show, contradicts Jones’ own assertions that he has no interest in facing Aspinall. Instead, Jones has expressed a desire to face light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, suggesting he might even vacate the heavyweight title to pursue a “BMF” championship fight against Pereira. However, White has unequivocally shut down this idea, stating that Jones’ only option for his next fight is Aspinall[3].

The tension between Jones and Aspinall has been building, particularly after Aspinall’s interim title win over Sergei Pavlovich. Aspinall has been vocal about his desire to face Jones, calling him out after his recent victory. Despite Jones’ reluctance, White remains firm that a unification fight between Jones and Aspinall is the next logical step[2][3].

Jones has defended his stance, arguing that he has never been scheduled to fight Aspinall and therefore cannot be accused of ducking him. He also emphasized that beating Aspinall would not significantly enhance his legacy, unlike other potential matchups.

Aspinall, known for his impressive record with all eight of his UFC wins coming in less than seven minutes, presents a formidable challenge to Jones. White believes that Jones will eventually come around to the idea of facing Aspinall, driven by his competitive spirit and the financial incentives of such a high-profile fight[3][5]).