Jon Jones believes he's the GOAT with or without beating Tom Aspinall.
Jon Jones is set to return to the Octagon on Saturday when he defends the UFC Heavyweight Championship against Stipe Miocic. Jones hasn't fought since winning the vacant title from Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in March 2023. Stipe hasn't fought since March 2021 when he lost by KO to Francis Ngannou.
Many fans have called for Jones to fight Interim UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall, should Jones retain on Saturday.
Jones hasn't been keen on the fight.
As at this point in my career, every decision is rooted in purpose. My journey isn’t dictated by hype or outside opinions—it’s about crafting a legacy that speaks for itself, one step at a time. I’m here to do what’s right for my career and my legacy, with a vision that’s clear…
— BONY (@JonnyBones) November 8, 2024
I know it’s hard for a lot of you guys to grasp,, but based on his résumé today, fighting and beating him would change nothing about my legacy. I would literally be in the same position I am now. The Goat https://t.co/9vNS0Ga4gd
— BONY (@JonnyBones) November 11, 2024
If he becomes the best of all time, then calling me a duck would make sense. Right now? Way too early. My challenge to him: build a career like mine. Winning 5? Hard enough. 17? I seriously doubt it. https://t.co/wxhVq9sQjj
— BONY (@JonnyBones) November 11, 2024
Aspinall has won three straight fights, all by (T)KO, and all under 90 seconds. He is 8-1 in the UFC with his only loss coming by way of knee injury 15 seconds into a fight against Curtis Blaydes. He avenged that loss by KOing Blaydes in one minute at UFC 304 in July.
Fightful will have coverage of UFC 309 on Saturday.
