The long-anticipated heavyweight title clash between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall appears to have hit yet another frustrating roadblock, with new reports suggesting fans might not get the showdown anytime soon.
Former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen gave an exciting update on the contest only a day ago, but is now reporting a different scenario.
Tom Aspinall vs. Jon Jones ‘Done Deal’ Claim Unravels After Initial Optimism
Just hours ago, Chael Sonnen boldly claimed that Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall was a “done deal” and even went as far as saying the fight had a set date. He’s now backtracked, leaving fans more confused than ever.
Sonnen had confidently asserted on ESPN’s “Good Guy/Bad Guy” show with Daniel Cormier that the heavyweight unification bout was finalized, likely targeted for International Fight Week or possibly a November return to Madison Square Garden in New York.
This appeared to be a breakthrough after over a year of anticipation, during which Aspinall defended his interim title against Curtis Blaydes. Jones, meanwhile, dispatched Stipe Miocic in a dominant defense of the undisputed strap.
But optimism quickly gave way to skepticism. Sonnen, in a follow-up video, revealed that the UFC is now planning for Aspinall to face former interim champion Ciryl Gane for the interim title again.
“The current plan is Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane… for the interim championship.”
“Now, I will back the moves with full integrity in place because our overarching theme… If we fiercely adhere to the rules that we make up as we go, I’m on board. I like anything that ends in world championship, but that’s a pretty hard sell,” Sonnen continued.
This development starkly contradicts Aspinall’s own stance.
The Englishman has consistently stated that he’s not after Jones’ name but is focused solely on becoming the undisputed champion. He’s repeatedly emphasized he won’t fight again unless it’s for the title, making Sonnen’s claim all the more startling. He also provided a positive update after a London meeting with UFC brass, Hunter Campbell, and multiple times thereafter.
Senior Journalist Claims It’s Up to Jon Jones To Make the Tom Aspinall Fight Happen
While Dana White has publicly remained optimistic about staging the title unification fight, MMA journalist Ariel Helwani suggests the UFC has done everything it can behind the scenes — and that the real holdup lies with Jones himself.
Helwani addressed the situation on The Ariel Helwani Show, stating, “The UFC has, based on the conversations that I’ve had, what I’m reading and surmising and what’s being told to me, is they have made every effort, in very good faith, to make this fight happen.”
Helwani noted that financial terms satisfactory to both fighters had reportedly been agreed upon, but still, there has been no official confirmation.
“If this fight doesn’t happen, it’s not because of the UFC,” Helwani added. “It’s not because of Tom Aspinall as well. I think ultimately, who will decide if this fight happens or not is Jon Jones. It’s up to him and it’s always been up to him.”
If Jon Jones x Tom Aspinall doesn't come to fruition, if for whatever reason it falls apart, the UFC is not to blame.
The UFC has, based on the conversations that I've had, made every effort, in very good faith, to make this fight happen.
We know Tom wants this fight. We know… pic.twitter.com/S1ClgL3z8j
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) April 22, 2025