Fans have launched a petition calling for Jon Jones to be stripped of the heavyweight title, with over 100,000 signatures already gathered. The growing frustration stems from the ongoing delay in the anticipated heavyweight clash between Tom Aspinall and Jones, which remains unconfirmed. Meanwhile, UFC heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov has expressed interest in a title shot if the fight continues to be postponed or fails to materialize.
It’s been over a year since Tom Aspinall captured the interim heavyweight title, and the delay in a unification bout has left not only fans but also several UFC fighters frustrated. Many are accusing the reigning heavyweight champion of avoiding a matchup with the English fighter. Sensing an opportunity, heavyweight contender Volkov has his sights set on a potential title shot. In a video released by Red Corner MMA, the Russian fighter stated:
“As far as I know, the UFC still wants to make the Jones vs Aspinall fight. So far, that’s not the option they consider, but our team keeps it in mind.”
Alexander Volkov Eyes Title Shot if Jones vs Aspinall Falls Through
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) June 1, 2025
"As far as I know, the UFC still wants to make the Jones vs Aspinall fight. So far that's not the option they consider, but our team keeps it in mind." pic.twitter.com/yfZMeC03WQ
With the summer fight cards already finalized, there’s no chance fans will see Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall take place this summer. However, there is still a possibility that this highly anticipated showdown could happen by the end of the year.
Matt Brown Warns Tom Aspinall Not To Wait For Jon Jones And Urges Him To Stay Active
Nearly a year has passed since Tom Aspinall last fought, with his interim heavyweight title win dating back to November 11, 2023. Despite holding the belt for over 500 days, he’s still waiting for a unification bout with Jon Jones. With no clear return in sight for Jones, MMA veteran Matt Brown has urged Aspinall not to repeat Michael Chandler’s mistake of staying inactive while chasing a big fight. Speaking on The Fighter vs. The Writer via MMA Fighting, Brown advised,
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“I look at that just like the [Michael] Chandler situation with Conor [McGregor]. Just go fight, bro. If it’s true, then your case is going to get stronger and stronger. If you’re sitting on the sidelines, it doesn’t really help your case as much.”
Brown emphasized the importance of staying active to maintain momentum and build a lasting legacy. As the tension between Aspinall and Jones continues to grow online, fans are left waiting to see when, or if, the long-awaited fight will finally be announced.
Also Read: Jon Jones Subtly Dismisses Tom Aspinall, Confident Of An Easy UFC Comeback Win
