The ongoing discussion about Jon Jones` next heavyweight title defense remains a major topic in MMA.
Despite positive updates regarding a fight with interim champion Tom Aspinall, some suggest Aspinall should consider other opponents if the Jones fight doesn`t materialize soon.
Jon Jones, often considered the greatest of all time, has been accused of avoiding a fight with Tom Aspinall for months, despite previously praising him.
A key point in negotiations is reportedly Jones` desired fight purse, which is understandable given the stakes involved.
While a win would be bigger for Aspinall, Jones has had close fights in the past that slightly tarnished his reputation.
Curtis Blaydes: Jon Jones Feels Vulnerable After Reyes Fight
Jon Jones officially has only one loss on his record – a disqualification in 2009 against Matt Hamill due to a now-legal technique.
Although his record is 28-1-1 since 2008, many believe he should have more losses.
At UFC 247, Jones defended his light heavyweight title against Dominick Reyes before moving to heavyweight.
Jones won that fight by decision, but many believe Reyes deserved the victory, with media scores largely favoring Reyes.
Curtis Blaydes, in a recent interview, mentioned the Reyes fight when discussing why he doubts the Jones-Aspinall fight will happen.
Blaydes, who has fought Aspinall twice, doesn`t think Jones is afraid, but believes Jones is being cautious.
“It`s all on Jon Jones. I don`t think he`s scared, but he`s likely realizing he`s older, slower, and recovery is tougher. He feels more vulnerable. His fight with Dominick Reyes, which I saw as a loss, showed his aura is diminished. I think Jones recognizes he could lose now,” Blaydes stated.
Curtis Blaydes Updates on His Return After Delays
Curtis Blaydes` return to the Octagon has been delayed since his loss to Tom Aspinall at UFC 304 last July.
A fight with Rizvan Kuniev was initially set for February, then moved to UFC 313, but Blaydes withdrew due to illness.
The fight is now expected to take place on June 21 in Azerbaijan.
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