Many fans expected Jon Jones to retire after facing Tom Aspinall — a long-hyped fight that built momentum but never happened. With Jones officially out of the picture, the spotlight shifts to the British heavyweight as he looks to carry the division’s legacy forward. Adding fuel to the conversation, UFC manager Ali Abdelaziz has weighed in on what’s next for the division, and he’s eyeing a blockbuster showdown between Aspinall and Francis Ngannou.
He expressed excitement about Tom Aspinall’s rise, calling him a potential all-time great in the division. Abdelaziz believes Aspinall has the skill and presence to leave a lasting legacy. He also mentioned that a matchup between Aspinall and former champion Francis Ngannou could be one of the biggest fights the UFC could ever promote, generating massive interest from fans worldwide.
“I think Tom Aspinall can go down as one of the greatest Heavyweights to ever do it. I think him vs Francis Ngannou can be one of the biggest fights the UFC can put on,” he said.
I’m really excited about the UFC Heavyweight division, I think Tom Aspinall can go down as one of the greatest Heavyweights to ever do it.
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) June 23, 2025
I think him vs Francis Ngannou can be one of the biggest fights the UFC can put on
Dana White Dismisses Francis Ngannou Return Talks
After Jon Jones announced his retirement, many fans hoped to see Francis Ngannou return to the UFC. However, UFC President Dana White quickly dismissed that possibility. He expressed skepticism about Ngannou’s intentions, pointing out a disconnect between the Cameroonian’s public statements and his behind-the-scenes actions.
According to White, a return seems highly unlikely on multiple levels, making it clear that Ngannou’s chapter in the UFC appears firmly closed for now. Indeed, Ngannou vs. Aspinall looks like a dream matchup on paper. Still, the possibility of that fight happening seems nearly impossible, especially considering how things ended between the Cameroonian powerhouse and the UFC.
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Also Read: Jon Jones Makes Surprising Confession About Two Occasions He Got Floored In A Fight
