Jon Jones next fight: 3 best options before UFC ‘GOAT’ retires
Jon Jones next fight could be the one that fans were waiting for since the co-main event of UFC 295 in 2023 concluded.
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Tom Aspinall could be the next fight for Jon Jones (Image via Imago/X)
Jon Jones became the third fighter in history to defend the light heavyweight and heavyweight belts in UFC history. At UFC 309, Jones comfortably defeated Stipe Miocic. This leads to the question – Who will Jon Jones fight next?
There are a handful of options to pick from for the UFC GOAT. While the fans are still celebrating the fighter’s win, Jon Jones remain undecided on his future. The undisputed heavyweight champion may walk away from the sport. Nevertheless, he has options if he chooses to compete again.
The heavyweight division might have some youthful contenders who would love to fight Jones. Fans are very excited to pitch in potential opponents for the best in the UFC, and a few names have often stood out the most for the next fight for Jon Jones.
Dana White wants to make Tom Aspinall vs. Jon Jones
For months, fans have asked for the heavyweight title unification bout between Tom Aspinall and Jones. However, Dana White decided to book Jones vs. Miocic, much to the dismay of the fan base. Jones decided against retiring at UFC 309, leaving the door open for one more bout.
Ever since Aspinall won the interim belt at UFC 295, Jones has not shown any interest in facing the younger talent. It has made the British star to troll the undisputed champion on numerous occasions. Now, with no contender remaining, Dana White wants to book Aspinall against Jones.
Dana White GUARANTEES “100%” that Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall will happen 👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) December 15, 2024
🎥 @ufc #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/uZrcrU9DKs
This is because the UFC CEO has the chance to book the greatest heavyweight bout in history. It could even rival some of the greatest fights the sport has showcased. With that spectacle in mind, White hopes to get a deal done to book the most anticipated matchup of 2025.
Interesting next fight options for Jon Jones
Not a lot of options are there for Jones. After all, the UFC doesn’t co-promote with other MMA promotions, and Francis Ngannou might not get the chance to face ‘Bones.’ As such, there are three exciting options for Jones’ next fight, with the last one being a dark horse candidate.
#1 Tom Aspinall
Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion, has the speed advantage. He could genuinely threaten the athleticism of Jones, and land clean significant strikes. The only question that remains is if the British fighter has the cardio to go all five rounds. However, that will only be answered if Jones vs. Aspinall happens.
#2 Alex Pereira
Alex “Poatan” Pereira is the undisputed light heavyweight champion. He has expressed his desire to compete in the heavyweight division. His dream matchup remains the battle against Jones. However, the UFC has shown a disinterest in booking that fight. However, Poatan can clean out the division, there is a chance that the UFC will say yes.
#3 Jailton Almeida
Jailton Almeida is a dark horse in the UFC heavyweight division. His grappling abilities ranks among the best. In a scenario where the UFC GOAT decides to compete a couple of more times, Almeida is an option. So far, Almeida’s only loss came against Curtis Blaydes in a fight where he was winning. If Almeida vs. Jones happens, the fans might witness another fighter trying to outgrapple Jones.
Related: Why is Jon Jones known as the villain of UFC? Learn about UFC legend’s ‘darkside’
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Prateek Athanur
(2971 Articles Published)