‘Focused’ Jones Defends Decision To ‘Duck’ Aspinall

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Jon Jones doesn’t owe anyone anything at this point in his career, but the UFC heavyweight champion does need to explain his decision to pass up a future fight with current interim UFC heavyweight titleholder Tom Aspinall.

Earlier this week, Jones spoke with Kevin Iole leading up to his long-awaited return against former UFC heavyweight king Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 later this month. Many are still confused why UFC matchmakers are hellbent on delivering a Jones vs. Miocic legacy fight instead of bringing in someone like Aspinall or even Alex Pereira, but the promotion does what the promotion wants.

Jones, who is a heavy betting favorite to handily defeat an aging Miocic, was asked if he would unify his title with Aspinall if he was victorious at UFC 309. While Jones has danced around the topic in the past this time around “Bones” confirmed he would not want to fight Aspinall. Instead, Jones would rather forge a superfight with Pereira, who is currently the UFC light heavyweight champion. Jones feels Aspinall still hasn’t accomplished enough in his career to add anything to his already historic legacy.

Of course, Jones’ dismissal of Aspinall has led to many claiming that the UFC heavyweight champion is ducking his biggest threat. Aspinall may be the toughest test on paper for Jones right now, but “Bones” isn’t going to change his career plans for anyone. Check out what he posted Friday afternoon to combat the haters:

As at this point in my career, every decision is rooted in purpose. My journey isn’t dictated by hype or outside opinions—it’s about crafting a legacy that speaks for itself, one step at a time. I’m here to do what’s right for my career and my legacy, with a vision that’s clear…

— BONY (@JonnyBones) November 8, 2024

“As at this point in my career, every decision is rooted in purpose. My journey isn’t dictated by hype or outside opinions—it’s about crafting a legacy that speaks for itself, one step at a time. I’m here to do what’s right for my career and my legacy, with a vision that’s clear and unshakable. Focused, driven, and in complete control of myself. The story continues, and it’s unfolding exactly as I’ve envisioned.”

Jones is already considered one of the best fighters of all time, but people are still saying he needs to fight Aspinall to solidify his legacy. Do you agree or has Jones already done enough to ignore the doubters?

Sound off!