Tom Aspinall Gives Jon Jones Taste of Own Medicine by Ignoring White House Fight Call Out

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall talks about potentially fighting Jon Jones at the much-anticipated UFC White House event in 2026.

Tom Aspinall Gives Jon Jones Taste of Own Medicine by Ignoring White House Fight Call Out

Tom Aspinall doesn't want to fight Jon Jones (via Imago)

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Over the last year, Tom Aspinall relentlessly campaigned for a heavyweight title shot against Jon Jones but ultimately failed. The former heavyweight champion repeatedly stalled negotiations with the Englishman before ultimately announcing his retirement from the sport. Now, with ‘Bones’ potentially returning next year, the UK native has no interest in going down the same route. 

After Donald Trump announced the UFC White House event, which was later confirmed to be taking place on 4th July 2026, by Dana White, the consensus MMA GOAT has decided to come out of retirement for the occasion. Moreover, Jones has even re-entered the testing pool, emphasizing how important it was for him to represent America at such a prestigious event. And just like that, rumors soon emerged about Jones potentially facing Aspinall for the 265-pound crown.

For context, Jones even shared a fan art on his Instagram story of him donning US-themed shorts after making quick work of Aspinall. Additionally, ‘Bones’ even expressed interest in facing anyone who would be the heavyweight champion at the time of the event, with Aspinall also being on that list. But now, in a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, the Englishman addressed the speculation and shared his honest opinion on the rumored matchup.

It’s just boring, it’s just so boring. It has spent 0 seconds in my mind. I’m not interested, and the world shouldn’t be interested either, because what’s the point? It’s false hope. It doesn’t not interest me, but it doesn’t really interest me. It would be a cool experience, but I feel like the Americans should get the shot at The White House. I’m not American.

Tom Aspinall via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Last time, the Manchester native did everything possible to earn a shot to unify the belts. From online provocations to creating hilarious, attention-grabbing skits, Aspinall wanted his opportunity while reigning as the interim king for over 550 days.

While waiting for Jones, he wasted valuable prime months as the UFC refused to book him against any other opponents. And so the Englishman has stated he will not repeat that frustrating experience, especially given his lack of support for Trump’s administration.

Trump and the political stance in America doesn’t bother me at all. I’m not a big Trump supporter or against him, I don’t know anything about American politics. Not American, don’t live there, don’t do anything there apart from paying taxes and fighting there. So all of that stuff just is irrelevant to me.

Tom Aspinall via The Ariel Helwani Show

On top of that, regardless of Jones’ interest in returning, UFC CEO Dana White remains uncertain about booking the fight. The head honcho commented at the UFC 318 presser that he no longer trusts Jones to headline important events. Moreover, if the bout happens at the White House event, Jones’ potential loss could create an unfavorable image for such a high-profile occasion. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see how the company navigates this confusion and decides the event’s top billing.

Tom Aspinall weighs in on the reason to fight in Abu Dhabi instead of Las Vegas

Tom Aspinall will defend his UFC heavyweight title against long-time rival Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 on October 25, 2025, in Abu Dhabi. Their rivalry has been brewing for years, with Aspinall dominating most top contenders but never facing the elusive and technical French striker. Gane, a former interim champion, has previously lost to Francis Ngannou and Jones at UFC 270 and UFC 285, respectively, making this his third attempt at gold.

Ciryl Gane to fight Tom Aspinall next
Ciryl Gane to fight Tom Aspinall next (via X)

The matchup headlines Etihad Arena, promising an explosive clash between Aspinall’s knockout power and Gane’s exceptional footwork and precision striking abilities. During The Ariel Helwani Show, Aspinall shared his reasons to fight in Abu Dhabi instead of Las Vegas. 

I absolutely love Vegas, as you know. The problem with Vegas it is so far away from the UK… That means you’ve got to leave home at least 2 weeks before, plus American taxes on top of it. I would rather fight in Abu Dhabi, which is much closer, much less travel time, 3 hours difference from the UK, and the taxes are a lot lower. Abu Dhabi is just a lot more accessible for myself, my opponent, and European fans.

Tom Aspinall via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Early betting odds heavily favor Tom Aspinall at -450, while Gane enters as the underdog at +325. Gane is currently on a two-fight win streak and will make his comeback after his recent Netflix debut. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see whether he finally manages to get his hands on the undisputed title. 

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