Tom Aspinall challenges Jon Jones’ legacy amid PED controversy

Tom Aspinall, the UFC interim heavyweight champion, has sparked conversation with his candid views on Jon Jones’ legacy and the potential for a blockbuster unification bout.

Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, Aspinall praised Jones’ achievements while raising concerns over his past controversies.

Aspinall acknowledged Jones’ storied career, including his 20-1 (1 NC) record and his historic reign as light heavyweight champion before moving to heavyweight.

“Jon is absolutely elite, and I agree he’s one of the best fighters ever. Potentially the greatest,” said Aspinall.

However, he added, “But he has failed a couple of drug tests, and to me, that rules you out of being the best of all time.”

Jones has faced criticism over multiple suspensions due to failed drug tests, though he has maintained that the results stemmed from tainted supplements.

Aspinall was clear in his stance, saying, “If you’re on PEDs and your opponent isn’t, that’s absolutely cheating in my book unless you’re both allowed to do it.”

Despite his reservations, Aspinall expressed eagerness to face Jones in a unification bout under fair conditions.

“If he’s not using [PEDs] now, yeah, I think so. Absolutely,” he said.

The prospect of the two heavyweights colliding appears closer, with Aspinall revealing details of a backstage interaction with UFC President Dana White after UFC 309.

“He literally walks into the room and says, ‘It’s happening.’ And he said, ‘It’s going to be the biggest fight in UFC history.’”

However, uncertainty remains over Jones’ commitment to the bout.

Fresh off a victory over Stipe Miocic, Jones’ next move is characteristically enigmatic.

“Nobody knows what he’s doing, even the UFC,” Aspinall remarked.

For Aspinall, the focus is on legacy, not monetary gain.

“I don’t really care about money at this point,” he said.

“What’s more important to me is unifying belts.”

With Aspinall’s rapid ascent in the heavyweight division and Jones’ unpredictable career trajectory, the potential matchup is already generating significant excitement.

Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting confirmation of what could become one of the most talked-about fights in UFC history.

Currently none of the UFC bookmakers have odds out for the Jones v Aspinal, with focus set on the UFC Fight Night set for Tampa on Saturday, December 14.

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