The prolonged situation surrounding the UFC heavyweight title, contested between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, appears to have reached a definitive point. Jones has now publicly placed responsibility for the delay on the promotion itself.
For several months, UFC enthusiasts have expressed frustration with Jon Jones due to repeated postponements of a potential title unification fight against interim champion Tom Aspinall.
UFC President Dana White had previously attempted to maintain a positive outlook among the fanbase, asserting on multiple occasions that the bout was `100%` guaranteed to happen, despite Jones`s perceived inactivity regarding the fight.
However, the narrative seemingly concluded this Friday when `Bones` posted a series of messages on social media that many interpreted as confirmation of his retirement from the UFC.
Jon Jones Blames UFC for Heavyweight Division Stagnation
The reigning UFC heavyweight champion is currently in Thailand, reportedly filming a Russian reality television series comparable to The Ultimate Fighter.
Apparently spending time online, Jones engaged on X (formerly Twitter) this Friday, continuously replying to fans who criticized him for allegedly avoiding the British fighter.
In a more pointed statement, the long-standing UFC figure accused the UFC organization of being the primary cause of the heavyweight division`s delay. He stated that he had informed them of his future intentions long ago.
Explaining his perspective, Jones wrote:
“I spoke to the UFC a long time ago about what my future plans were,” Jones began to explain.
“I haven’t really worked out since my last fight in New York City. Honestly, I believe it’s been in the UFC’s best interest to keep presenting me as the company’s champion – not Tom.
“I’ve just been playing the role of company man by doing nothing at all… And holding the position. And truthfully, it’s been incredibly lucrative. I’ve made more money off of Tom being the interim champ than Tom has himself.
“It sucks to see the rest of the division get slowed down like this, but that has nothing to do with me. I don’t pull the strings,” Jones continued.
Jones Claims Heavyweight Situation Won`t Affect His Legacy
It is widely acknowledged that Jones will be remembered as one of the greatest fighters of all time. However, the recent events in the heavyweight division are unlikely to enhance his standing.
Despite this, the 37-year-old argued that his decision not to face Aspinall, despite significant demand from the UFC fanbase, will not negatively impact his overall legacy.
Sharing his thoughts on the concept of legacy, he claimed:
“That’s the problem with some young men, you think your last outcome is your legacy. That’s why when many of you fall short, you can’t find the strength to return.
“But here’s the truth: your legacy isn’t your last move. Legacy is what no one can take from you. It’s built over time, not defined by a single win or loss,” he claimed.
It appears the heavyweight division`s future path now hinges on an official announcement from the UFC confirming Jon Jones`s retirement from the sport of mixed martial arts.
