Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall – Who truly deserves to top the heavyweight fighter list?

The UFC heavyweight division is undergoing a dramatic shakeup with the rise of Tom Aspinall and the return of Jon Jones. While Jones has long held the title of “undisputed champion,” Aspinall has rapidly made a name for himself as a dominant force in the division. As both fighters continue to shine, the question arises: who deserves to be the No. 1 heavyweight in MMA?

Jon Jones’ Heavyweight Legacy

Once the king of the UFC light heavyweight division, Jon Jones made the bold decision to move up to heavyweight after a decade of dominance. At UFC 285, he claimed the UFC heavyweight title in impressive fashion by defeating Ciryl Gane, marking his first fight in the new division. He followed up with another strong performance at UFC 309, where he secured a knockout victory over Stipe Miocic, a former champion.

Despite his success in the heavyweight division, Jones has only had two matches in the weight class—one against a top-ranked fighter (Gane) and the other against the aging Miocic. This limited number of fights has led to growing debate about whether Jon Jones should be considered the top heavyweight in MMA.

Tom Aspinall’s Rapid Rise in Heavyweight

On the other hand, Tom Aspinall has been steadily climbing the UFC heavyweight rankings with an 8-1 record in the promotion. After earning the interim title at UFC 295, Aspinall successfully defended it against Curtis Blaydes in July 2023, avenging the only loss of his career. His combination of speed, power, and technique has made him one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the sport today.

What sets Aspinall apart is his impressive consistency against top-tier opponents. His victory over Blaydes solidified his place among the elite, showcasing his ability to finish fights quickly and dominate in all areas. As a result, Aspinall has gained a reputation for being one of the most exciting and well-rounded fighters in the division.

Why Aspinall Might Deserve the No. 1 Spot

While Jon Jones’ undefeated legacy holds weight, his recent performances in the heavyweight division have been limited. In contrast, Aspinall’s active competition and consistent wins over elite opponents suggest that he may be the true future of the UFC heavyweight division. His interim title win and victory over Blaydes put him on a fast track to the top, and at just 31 years old, Aspinall is in the prime of his career.

In terms of active momentum, Aspinall has clearly demonstrated that he is ready to face the best in the division. His quick finishes and impressive skill set make him a dangerous contender against anyone at the top of the rankings.

Why Jon Jones May Not Be the True No. 1 Heavyweight

Despite the UFC’s continued recognition of Jon Jones as the heavyweight champion, his reluctance to compete against younger, rising fighters like Aspinall raises questions about his position at the top. At 37 years old, Jones is unlikely to maintain the same level of dominance in the division as younger fighters like Aspinall, who are hungry for competition and success. Additionally, Jones’ refusal to face top-ranked fighters in the heavyweight division—aside from Gane and Miocic—limits his credibility as the true No. 1 heavyweight in MMA.

Conclusion: Aspinall or Jones?

In conclusion, while Jon Jones’ legacy and past achievements in the light heavyweight division are undeniable, Tom Aspinall’s consistent and dominant performances in the heavyweight division suggest that he may be the true No. 1. Aspinall’s active fight schedule, combined with his ability to defeat top contenders, positions him as the future of the UFC heavyweight division. As for Jon Jones, his past glory may not be enough to secure him the top spot, especially when weighed against Aspinall’s momentum and desire to face the best in the sport.