UFC fans hoping for a blockbuster heavyweight unification clash between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall may have to wait even longer.
Despite growing anticipation and previous assurances from UFC president Dana White, new insider claims suggest Aspinall is now being “convinced” to defend his interim title against Ciryl Gane instead.
In recent months, Aspinall had teased progress in the long-awaited showdown with Jones, even revealing that he’d been “sworn to secrecy” regarding ongoing talks.
Dana White had also offered a positive update, insisting the fight “will happen.”
However, a new twist has emerged.
According to UFC analyst Din Thomas, the promotion may be pivoting. Speaking with Mike Bohn, Thomas said: “If I had to put my money on it, I think they convinced Tom Aspinall to fight Ciryl Gane.”
He added that the UFC is likely to make Gane an offer too good to refuse.
“Tom wants to fight. He’ll be like, ‘Alright, I’ll fight’. I think they’ll throw a number at Ciryl Gane that he can’t refuse. It won’t be ideal for him, but I think it makes more sense that way,” Thomas explained.
This aligns with recent speculation from Chael Sonnen, who also hinted that Aspinall vs Gane is in the works—potentially at UFC 317.
As for Jon Jones, Thomas believes the reigning champion is deliberately stalling.
“Jon is a chess player. He’s collecting as much information on Tom Aspinall as possible,” said Thomas. “We haven’t seen Tom in a lot of tough spots, and I think Jon wants to wait and see how he handles more challenges.”
The delay has not gone unnoticed. Earlier this week, Jones became the second-longest reigning UFC heavyweight champion, surpassing Stipe Miocic and now trailing only Cain Velasquez.
If he extends the delay another six months, Jones could set a new record—despite having only one title defense.
While Jones' calculated approach might make sense from a strategic perspective, the fanbase is growing restless.
Many view his refusal to engage with Aspinall as damaging to his legacy, especially as Aspinall continues to rise as one of the division’s most promising and dynamic talents.
Aspinall, who recently set the record for longest-reigning interim champion in UFC history, appears ready to take on any challenge—but if the latest reports hold, it won't be Jon Jones just yet.
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