The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heavyweight division has faced an unusual level of suspense recently. After Francis Ngannou left the UFC, Jon Jones clinched the heavyweight title in March 2023. Originally scheduled to defend it against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 in November of that year, Jones was sidelined by a torn pectoral tendon. Fast-forward to November 16 at UFC 309, Jones and Miocic are set to collide in a battle the MMA world has waited for. Yet, Jones is looking beyond this fight—at a potential legacy-defining matchup with none other than Alex Pereira.
Jon Jones Eyes Pereira While Tom Aspinall Waits in Line
With Jones and Miocic away from the octagon, the interim heavyweight title went to Tom Aspinall, who successfully defended it against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304. UFC president Dana White announced that Aspinall would face the winner of Jones vs. Miocic, logically setting up a title unification bout. However, Jones appears to be less enthused about fighting Aspinall, expressing instead a strong interest in facing Alex Pereira. Aspinall, however, isn’t taking this dismissal lightly, adding fuel to the ongoing debate: Why would Jones prefer Pereira over Aspinall?
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Jones Hints at a Pereira Fight—A Potential Legacy Bout?
For Jon Jones, each fight is carefully selected to build his legacy. In a recent interview shared on Instagram by “Championship Rounds,” Jones openly named Pereira as a desired opponent, sharing that the match intrigues him. “I want a flawless performance, something dominant, and to either retire or take on Alex Pereira in a mega fight. Whether a title is on the line or not, I don’t need any more belts. The fight with Pereira would just be incredible,” Jones said.
Jones continued, “We’re the same age, same size, and he’s got a reputation that’s worth fighting. I hear fans calling out ‘Chama’ everywhere—it’s a name that Americans love. That’s what makes it worth it for me.” Jones even implied that if the Pereira fight doesn’t materialize, he may choose retirement over facing Aspinall.
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Why Jon Jones Isn’t Eager for a Tom Aspinall Fight
While the heavyweight division seems poised for a Jones vs. Aspinall showdown, Jones isn’t interested in the interim champ. In an interview with Kevin Iole, he explained, “Aspinall hasn’t proven himself enough. He hasn’t done anything substantial that makes me want to risk my name and legacy on him. I want to fight legends—guys who, when you look back, it’s like ‘Jon Jones fought these champions and legends.’”
Jones added that Aspinall is someone he finds “annoying,” saying if Aspinall wanted to fight him, he should have made that move earlier rather than challenging Jones as he nears retirement. According to Jones, Aspinall doesn’t have the standout legacy required to earn his attention.
Alex Pereira’s Appeal to Jones: A Proven Fighter with Championship Pedigree
In contrast, Alex Pereira’s resume speaks for itself. After dominating middleweight, Pereira has climbed the ranks, even becoming a two-division champion. Known for his powerful striking and relentless spirit, Pereira earned notable wins over Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr., showcasing his dominance. In Jones’ view, Pereira’s success and reputation make him a perfect rival—especially given their equal age, physical size, and Pereira’s popularity among fans.
However, some speculate that Jones favors a Pereira match due to his grappling advantage. With Pereira’s primary strengths in striking, many believe Jones could exploit this potential weakness, adding another win to his legacy while steering clear of the unknowns that Aspinall might bring.
The MMA Community Reacts: Accusations of “Ducking” Fly
Jones’ preference for Pereira over Aspinall has sparked heated reactions among fans and MMA experts alike. Luke Thomas, a prominent MMA journalist, didn’t hold back, accusing Jones of “ducking” Aspinall. During his commentary, Thomas referred to a moment at the UFC 214 press conference when Jones seemingly dismissed a question about fighting Aspinall. “This is classic ducking,” Thomas said. “Jones is avoiding a challenging contender in favor of a more favorable fight.”
Following suit, Tom Aspinall called out Jones, accusing him of avoiding a title unification bout. Aspinall, who has been vocal about his championship aspirations, was quick to voice his disappointment in Jones’ shift in focus.
Does Jones Want an Easier Fight or a Greater Legacy?
Jones’ path forward seems to hinge on his legacy more than ever. Some fans believe Jones prefers Pereira because the matchup offers a blend of challenge and legacy enhancement, yet with a perceived grappling advantage. For Jones, legacy fights have always been the pinnacle, pushing him to take on only the most iconic opponents.
A Pereira fight would surely generate massive interest, and Jones knows that the MMA world would tune in. However, Aspinall represents an unknown factor, one that Jones may not be willing to gamble on. For Jones, maintaining his unblemished record and adding Pereira’s name to his list of conquests might be the ideal final chapter.
FAQ Section
Why is Jon Jones more interested in fighting Alex Pereira than Tom Aspinall?
Jones sees Pereira as a legacy fight. Pereira is a proven two-division champion with significant fan interest, making him an ideal opponent for Jones to further cement his legacy.
Has Jon Jones said he would retire soon?
Yes, Jones has hinted that he may retire after UFC 309, depending on whether he secures a fight with Pereira. If the Pereira fight doesn’t happen, Jones has implied he might retire and focus on his family and personal life.
What makes Alex Pereira a unique opponent for Jon Jones?
Pereira and Jones are the same age and similar in size, with Pereira being a striking powerhouse. Pereira’s legacy, reputation, and popularity make him an appealing matchup for Jones, even if it’s not for the title.
Is Jones “ducking” Tom Aspinall?
This has been a point of debate. Critics, including MMA journalist Luke Thomas, have suggested Jones is avoiding Aspinall to take on a more favorable opponent like Pereira, who may present fewer risks to Jones’ legacy.
Will the winner of Jones vs. Miocic face Tom Aspinall?
While Dana White has indicated that Aspinall will face the winner, Jones has shown little interest in this matchup, hinting he may retire or pursue a fight with Pereira instead.
