According to Chael Sonnen, a fight between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall is very likely to happen.
The potential matchup between UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall has been a major topic in MMA for over a year. Chael Sonnen, a UFC Hall of Famer, suggests it`s no longer a question of “if” but “when” this fight will be scheduled.
Sonnen mentioned on Submission Radio that Alex Pereira was considered as a possible opponent to pressure Jones into agreeing to fight Aspinall. He stated that a fight between Pereira and Aspinall would be a great alternative if the Jones vs. Aspinall fight couldn`t be arranged.
Sonnen claims, based on inside information, that a verbal agreement between Jones and Aspinall was reached the night before the Pereira vs. Ankalaev fight. He emphasized that this information is exclusive.
Sonnen`s statements align with recent comments from UFC CEO Dana White, who indicated that the fight is expected and it`s just a matter of finalizing the details and signing contracts. Aspinall has also expressed optimism about the fight happening. However, despite this positive outlook, the fight is not yet officially confirmed. Rumors suggest Jones desires six months to prepare, but Sonnen believes Jones`s public statements about the preparation time might not be entirely serious.
Sonnen elaborated that when Jones initially mentioned Tom Aspinall, he jokingly asked for $30 million, which Sonnen believes was not a serious demand but just words that gained traction. Similarly, Sonnen doubts Jones genuinely needs a full six months for preparation and suggests he might be feeling pressured to stick to that timeframe due to public perception.
Sonnen advises fighters to secure their earnings quickly, as the outcome of the fight remains the same regardless of the timing. He believes that whether the fight occurs soon or in six months, the better fighter will ultimately win.
Dana White previously hinted at the fight possibly taking place in the summer, which contradicts Jones`s rumored six-month preparation request. However, Sonnen suggests that a November date in New York would be a suitable timeline if the verbal agreement is indeed in place, aligning with the UFC`s typical schedule.
Sonnen predicts the fight will happen in November in New York, noting the UFC`s usual events in New York in November and Las Vegas in December. He speculates whether the UFC will choose the “fight capital of the world” (Las Vegas) or New York, where they have had their largest live gate.
