Reality of Jon Jones ‘Ducking’ Tom Aspinall Amidst $30 Million Payday Demand Finally Gets Exposed

Veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani weighed in about the financial dealings regarding Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall unification bout.

Reality of Jon Jones ‘Ducking’ Tom Aspinall Amidst $30 Million Payday Demand Finally Gets Exposed

Ariel Helwani mentions how Jon Jones rejected almost $30 million to avoid fighting Tom Aspinall (via Imago)

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Earlier this year, a potential heavyweight title unification showdown between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall became one of the most talked-about matchups in the MMA world. For the unversed, the Englishman campaigned relentlessly for the fight and reigned as the interim kingpin for over 550 days but negotiations dragged on as Jones repeatedly delayed, leaving fans frustrated.

In a shocking turn of events, Jones bypassed further talks altogether and stunned the sport by officially announcing his retirement from MMA. Moreover, Dana White announced his departure at the UFC Baku presser in a rather lackluster manner. The move sparked accusations from fans and analysts that Jones was deliberately avoiding the dangerous challenge Aspinall posed.

The UK heavyweight even joked earlier that he’d “retired” Jones without ever stepping into the Octagon against him. Recently, renowned reporter Ariel Helwani shed light on the saga, sharing intriguing insider details about what really went on behind the scenes of the failed deal.

He (Jones) didn’t wanna fight him (Aspinall). He gave the UFC a number. I believe it’s in the 30 million dollar range…He didn’t think they would come up with the number, and they did. I believe that Saudi Arabia was involved. He said yes and then two days later, he said, ”Nah, on second thought I’m out”. I think he was hoping they wouldn’t meet the number.

Ariel Helwani via IMPAULSIVE podcast

Helwani also revealed that during the Francis Ngannou negotiations, Jones used the same tactics by demanding an outrageous fight purse. The UFC didn’t give the green-light to that demand, and the fight was ultimately called off before it could even reach serious talks. This time, White was motivated as he called Aspinall vs. Jones the biggest heavyweight bout in company history and didn’t like Jones retiring, feeling the 265lbs division needed its reigning champion.

The UFC head honcho has often credited Jones as the best in combat sports history, but recent negotiations left him uneasy and doubtful. Since then, he has shifted his focus to Aspinall and plans to compensate him for waiting for Jones. Moreover, the Englishman is set to make his first undisputed title defense at UFC 321 against Ciryl Gane in Abu Dhabi in October.

While many veterans find it hard to leave the sport at the perfect time, Jones doesn’t want the same. He knew the risks of getting knocked out by Aspinall and how it would have affected his record and aura. Nevertheless, now there could be potential for both fighters to fight again at the UFC White House event slated to take place on 4th July 2026.

Tom Aspinall wasn’t much bothered by Jon Jones’ retirement 

Tom Aspinall did everything possible to secure the Jones fight, from trolling to openly calling him a duck. Despite the verbal jabs, Aspinall maintained a high level of respect and never crossed any professional boundaries throughout the buildup. When ‘Bones’ eventually announced his retirement, Aspinall admitted he wasn’t shocked, as he had anticipated such an outcome from the beginning.

Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall at the White House event?
Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall at the White House event? (via X)

The UK heavyweight expressed confidence in his abilities but accepted the situation, focusing on future opportunities instead of dwelling. In an interview, Aspinall gave his greetings to Jones for his retirement after achieving everything in the UFC. 

If he truly feels like he’s done enough, he will be at peace… I hope he’s enjoying his life, enjoying his family, and celebrating his career because it’s been amazing.

Tom Aspinall in an interview with Steven Barlett

Now, Jones has re-entered the UFC testing pool, aiming for a comeback fight at the highly anticipated UFC White House event. Many doubt Jones will risk facing Aspinall on Independence Day, fearing a potential loss could damage America’s image. Aspinall has denied the opportunity, unwilling to wait and risk losing momentum by engaging with Jones’ unpredictable situation again.

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