Tom Aspinall has made his intentions clear: he never wants Jon Jones to retire from the game in the Octagon. Despite amassing an impressive winning streak in the UFC heavyweight division, Espinal finds himself in the frustrating position of only holding the interim title now that Jon Jones is preparing for a high-profile bout with Stipe Miocic at Madison Square Garden this November. Espinal thinks Jones has deliberately avoided him, determined to prove that he is the rightful, undisputed champion of the heavyweight division
Will and reality
Despite Espinal’s dominance, John Jones is focused on an upcoming fight with Miocic, a match that could end Jones’ legendary career but Espinal doubts Jones would ever agree to face him, claiming publicly there is no rumor or evidence that Jones has Miocic behind Espinal, . willing to fight him, shared his thoughts on the Believe You Me podcast, expressing his frustration with Jones’ silence since his recent win.
Jones legacy is Aspinall disappointment
Jon Jones has publicly stated that fighting Miocic is more important to his legacy than fighting Espinal. Considered one of the greatest heavyweights in UFC history, Miocic holds the record for the most title defenses in the division. But at 42, and coming off a knockout loss, Miocic may not be at his peak. Espinal believes that’s why Jones chose to fight him instead of facing a younger, more dangerous opponent.
Espinal’s Challenge
Espinal believes neither Jones nor Miocic deserve to fight for the heavyweight title despite having questionable careers. He criticizes the UFC for not recognizing that he is now the best heavyweight in the world, and insists that Jones’ desire to fight Miocic is proof that the reigning champion is avoiding him.
Dana White Influence
Perhaps the biggest obstacle for Espinal is not Miocic, but UFC CEO Dana White. White hailed Jones as the ultimate pound-for-pound fighter and one of the best mixed martial artists of all time. This accolade seems to confirm Jones’ decision to fight Miocic, much to Espinal’s chagrin.
The best in the world?
Espinal strongly believes he is the best heavyweight in the UFC, and is disappointed he isn’t getting the recognition he deserves. He criticizes the UFC for “holding the belt hostage” and insists that Jones enjoys the attention and adulation of Dana White without proving himself to be the division’s top contender
Espinal has fixed it
Despite that disappointment, Espinal is expected to serve as a backup fighter for the Jones vs. Pope fight. Miocic later this year. He vowed to step in at a moment’s notice if the opportunity presented itself, ready to fight any of them. Espinal is determined to prove he is the best heavyweight in the world and believes only a fight with Jones will solidify his claim.
“I’m the heavyweight guy, not him — it’s me,” Espinal declared. “I want to be recognized as the best. I’ve actually got a belt. I’m protecting it. He defends against 42-year-old Stipe Miocic, who has a million miles on the clock. If you want to be a real man, you have to fight me.”
