Jon Jones' $30 million demand gets surprising backing from rival Tom Aspinall

Tom Aspinall has been eager to face Jon Jones in a UFC heavyweight title unification bout, but delays have stalled the fight. Jones has shown little interest in the matchup, making various demands that have prevented the fight from materializing.

The highly anticipated clash remains uncertain, frustrating fans who have waited over a year for the showdown.

Jones is currently on the last stint of his UFC career and allegedly wants over $30 million for the fight. Aspinall recently did an interview with MMA reporter Ariel Helwani where they discussed the situation about fight purses. Helwani asked Aspinall about Jones pricing himself out to avoid the battle. In response, the UK native shared his unbiased opinion.

I would also agree with the notion that he deserves every penny he makes. Because he's done everything he can.

Tom Aspinall via The Ariel Helwani Show

Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest UFC fighters, dominating light heavyweight with unparalleled skills and accomplishments. His legacy includes multiple title reigns, record-breaking performances, and victories over legendary opponents in the sport. Despite controversies, his impact on MMA remains undeniable, cementing his status as one of the most talented fighters ever.

He is undoubtedly one of the UFC's biggest pay-per-view stars, consistently drawing massive audiences with his fights. His dominance, rivalries, and polarizing personality have contributed to his marketability. At the age of 37, Jones' ability to sell fights remained strong, making him one of the highest-paid fighters in UFC history. However, it seems like that wasn't enough, as the fighter wants even more.

Tom Aspinall is fed up with Jon Jones

Jon Jones avoided Tom Aspinall last year, prioritizing a legacy fight against Stipe Miocic instead of facing the interim champion. Aspinall pushed hard for a fight with Jones at UFC 309, but the matchup never materialized. Jones defeated Miocic via TKO, making a strong statement in front of newly elected President Donald Trump at the event.

Tom Aspinall comments on waiting for Jon Jones (via Imago)

After that, Jones also showed interest in fighting the former light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, as the Brazilian was more popular than Aspinall. However, after Pereira's loss at UFC 313, Jones is now left with no options but to fight Aspinall next. In a recent interview, Aspinall shared his frustration over waiting for Jones for such a long time.

I don't have a message. I have had enough of it, let me fight. Somebody, somebody. I'm a professional fighter. I'm over waiting, to be honest.

Tom Aspinall via The Schmo's YouTube channel

Aspinall is entertaining to watch because of his exceptional speed, technical striking, and well-rounded grappling for a heavyweight. His ability to finish fights quickly, whether by knockout or submission, keeps fans excited. Aspinall's confident fighting style, footwork, and unpredictability make him a dangerous opponent. He has spends little time inside the cage, as he likes to end his opponents as soon as possible.

On top of that, his humble personality and willingness to fight anyone add to his huge appeal. As a result, fans are desperate to see him back in action and blame the UFC for wasting his prime years. Many believe that Aspinall does have the chance to beat Jones and send him to retirement.

Can Tom Aspinall beat Jon Jones?

Tom Aspinall has the speed and power to challenge Jon Jones in striking exchanges. Jones, however, has an elite fighting IQ and adaptability. Aspinall's boxing is sharp, but Jones controls distance well with kicks and reach. Though, inside the pocket, Aspinall could land clean shots. Jones' wrestling has dominated elite grapplers, but Aspinall's BJJ is underrated.

Tom Aspinall comments on waiting for Jon Jones (via Imago)

If taken down, Aspinall must scramble quickly to survive. Aspinall's speed could surprise Jones early, but Jones adjusts mid-fight. His experience in championship rounds gives him an advantage. If Aspinall finishes early, he wins. Meanwhile, if Jones survives, his strategy and endurance likely prevail.

Tom Aspinall via The Ariel Helwani Show Tom Aspinall via The Schmo's YouTube channel

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Ameetosh is a writer specializing in MMA and boxing. He's a BBA graduate with great enthusiasm towards combat sports and sports in general. Ameetosh got into MMA after experiencing the iconic rivalry between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229. Currently he is trying his best to create stories to make the readers feel something similar.