Aspinall Knocks Out Pavlovich, Sets Sights on Jon Jones
Tom Aspinall has firmly etched his name in the annals of UFC history with a decisive knockout victory over Sergei Pavlovich, earning him the interim heavyweight title. This victory has not only highlighted Aspinall's prowess inside the octagon but also paved the way for a new era in the heavyweight division.
Aspinall's recent performances have been nothing short of commanding. His match against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 particularly stood out, showcasing his tactical brilliance and physical dominance. Yet, while Aspinall rises, the heavyweight division faces uncertainties, especially concerning the much-anticipated bout between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic.
Originally scheduled for UFC 295 on November 11, 2023, the Jones vs. Miocic fight was postponed following Jones' injury. This development led to Miocic being pulled from the card as well, leaving fans eagerly awaiting a rescheduled date. Rumors now suggest that the bout might take place at UFC 309 on November 16.
The postponement of the marquee fight hasn't kept Aspinall silent. Known for his candid nature, Aspinall has openly criticized Jon Jones' lifestyle when not in the ring. "Let's be honest, and since I won that fight, he's gone completely quiet," Aspinall commented. "He'll continue to go completely quiet about me until he retires. Because there's no way on Earth that he's going to fight me. Not a chance. I will retire Jon Jones without even fighting him."
At 37, Jon Jones is arguably in the twilight of his illustrious career. He wants to finish on a high note, aiming to join the ranks of retired legends like Tom Brady and Floyd Mayweather. However, the challenge presented by Aspinall is one that Jones seems reluctant to entertain. Aspinall further reiterated, "I challenge anybody watching this interview to go and find the statement, quote, a video where Jon Jones is saying that he'll fight me after he's fought Stipe. It doesn't exist."
Jones' inactivity hasn't gone unnoticed, and Aspinall didn't hold back in his critique. "The guy's smart, and we know the guy's a bit overweight these days. The guy sat there with the Cheeto fingers or whatever, Doritos on his fingers with his iPhone in hand waiting for me to get knocked out [by Blaydes] so he could start tweeting about it."
The tension underscores a broader question within the UFC community: Who truly represents the pinnacle of the heavyweight division today? Aspinall certainly believes it's him, not Jones or Miocic. "They don't f---ing deserve to be fighting for the heavyweight title. Them guys are not the top of the heavyweight division right now. Dana White and everybody else can say whatever they want, them guys aren't the best heavyweights in the world right now," Aspinall asserted with conviction.
Aspinall's declaration doesn't sound hollow, given his recent performances and current momentum. "I'm the guy at heavyweight, not him -- me. I want to be recognized as the best. I've got the real belt. I'm the one defending. He's defending against a 42-year-old Stipe Miocic with a million miles on the clock. If you want to be the real guy, you have to fight me," he emphasized.
While the UFC community eagerly awaits clarity on the Jones-Miocic bout, it's clear that Aspinall is making a strong case for himself as the top heavyweight fighter of today. Meanwhile, Jones remains focused on his legacy. "I'm 37 years old now, I've kicked everyone's ass. My job is to finish strong and make an amazing movie. Go join Tom Brady, Floyd Mayweather and all the other retired bad asses," Jones stated, expressing his desire to leave an indelible mark before hanging up his gloves.
As fans and critics alike continue to dissect the dynamics of the heavyweight division, one thing is certain: Tom Aspinall is not just a contender; he's a force demanding recognition and respect. Whether Jones will eventually face Aspinall remains uncertain, but the rhetoric and performances hint at a brewing storm in the UFC's heavyweight ranks.