Sat Nov 16 19:17:16 UTC 2024: ## Jones’ Next UFC Fight Hinges on Miocic Victory, Aspinall Awaits
**New York, NY** – UFC President Dana White has announced that if Jon Jones successfully defends his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 this Saturday, his next opponent will be interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. This announcement comes despite Jones’ public desire for a superfight with light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.
White, speaking on The Jim Rome Show, stated unequivocally that if Jones wants another fight after Saturday’s main event at Madison Square Garden, it will be against Aspinall. He dismissed Jones’ preference for Pereira, citing Pereira’s less developed wrestling skills and size disadvantage against the much larger Jones.
Jones, however, has repeatedly expressed his unwillingness to fight Aspinall, even going so far as to say he doesn’t want to do business with him. He has publicly prioritized a bout with Pereira, even offering to relinquish his heavyweight belt to make the superfight happen. Jones views a Pereira fight as a highly lucrative opportunity, potentially for a “BMF” belt, adding another championship to their already impressive records.
While White acknowledges Jones’ reluctance towards Aspinall, he insists it’s not an avoidance tactic, emphasizing Jones’ extensive and illustrious fighting career against top contenders. He suggests that Jones’ post-fight actions, including potential temporary retirement, are typical behavior before the competitive urge kicks in again and negotiations begin.
Jones is heavily favored to win against Miocic, making the Aspinall matchup the likely next chapter in his career unless he chooses retirement. The outcome of Saturday’s fight will determine whether the Jones-Aspinall showdown materializes.
First Piper 