Chael Sonnen puts full-stop to Jon Jones ducking accusations; claims Tom Aspinall fight is booked

UFC Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen believes Jon Jones has already signed the contract to fight Tom Aspinall in a heavyweight title unification bout.

Chael Sonnen puts full-stop to Jon Jones ducking accusations; claims Tom Aspinall fight is booked

Chael Sonnen talks about the Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall fight (via Imago)

Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall heavyweight title unification bout is one of most anticipated in recent times. Aspinall has held the interim championship for more than 400 days and is desperate to get his hands on the title. The constant delay put Jones in bad lighting, however, according to Chael Sonnen these reports are false.

Aspinall has often mentioned that the delay is from Jones’ side and he has always been ready for the fight. As a result, many thought that it is Jones who is ducking the young challenger and hence giving several excuses. However, in a recent podcast, Sonnen has mentioned that Jones has already signed the contract for the bout. 

 I am confident enough to tell you that fight is done, though. That fight is agreed all the way down to the date. He’s been a troll, he’s had some fun, he even tried to negotiate with the media. Privately, he takes that phone call, it’s yes or anything else…but that did not happen. Jon Jones had not ducked this fight. 

Chael Sonnen via The Good Guy/ Bad Guy Show 

Sonnen explained that the fight will not take place on the International Fight Week which could be disappointing. However, updates like this makes everyone get a sense of optimism in the current volatile landscape of UFC matchmaking. This follows Aspinall latest update about the fight as the fighter said he has been sworn to secrecy about the details. 

Aspinall last fought at UFC 304, knocking out Curtis Blaydes, marking his third consecutive finish in dominant fashion. Despite this win, many months have passed, leaving the interim champion frustrated and eager to return to the Octagon soon. He’s vocal about not wasting prime years waiting. The biggest question, however, remains unanswered—when and where will the heavyweight title fight finally take place? 

How long will it take Jon Jones to prepare for the fight?

Jon Jones took a whopping three-year break to properly bulk up and prepare for his move to the heavyweight division. His patience was rewarded when he returned and dominated Ciryl Gane, capturing the vacant title with ease and precision. Unfortunately, a serious injury delayed his first defense, sidelining him for another year before facing legend Stipe Miocic.

Jon Jones' preparation time to fight Tom Aspinall
Jon Jones’ preparation time to fight Tom Aspinall (via X)

Now, growing concerns surround the impact of long layoffs on the heavyweight division’s momentum and competitive rhythm. Jones has faced criticism for stalling the division by, though the accusations seem to have little effect on the champion himself. When questioned, Jones claimed he’d need six months to prepare for the dangerous Brit. That timeline didn’t sit well with Chael Sonnen, who responded sharply and raised concerns. 

If Jon needs six months to train for Aspinall, how much does he still need? Did he take a couple of weeks off? Did he take a whole month off? For heaven’s sake, did he take the whole time off? It’s been four and a half months since that fight, did he not train with Aspinall in mind? Did he not full well know the undisputed champion was gonna take on the interim champion? What do you mean he needs six months? Six months starting when?

Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel 

Jones always takes extended time to prepare because he deeply studies each opponent’s habits, tendencies, strengths, and potential weaknesses meticulously. He analyzes hours of fight footage, identifying patterns and subtle details that most fighters overlook when preparing for high-level competition. This obsessive preparation style reflects Jones’ desire for mastery, ensuring he remains one step ahead and doesn’t lose.

For Jones, his record and legacy are extremely important, which he won’t ruin for a tough and young challenger. Despite being the fan favourite, the fighter understands the danger that Aspinall possesses. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see how the UFC will finally make the announcement.