UFC president Dana White has recently provided insights into the anticipated return of heavyweight champion Jon Jones to the octagon. On a noteworthy day for White, which included announcing a new boxing league under the TKO brand, he addressed numerous inquiries about Jones’ future in various interviews.
There had been speculation that Jones might retire following his victory over Stipe Miocic last November; however, White has dispelled those rumours. He emphasised that Jones is eager to fight and is willing to take on anyone, despite what has been suggested online. Jones, who has fought only once in the past two years, remains the undisputed champion, while the interim title has been claimed by the rising star Tom Aspinall.
Aspinall has expressed a strong desire to face Jones, and negotiations surrounding the fight are intensifying after some initial hesitation from Jones’ camp. White indicated in an interview on The Jim Rome Show that a return to the octagon is expected for Jones in the middle of the year. He mentioned, “The plan is to fight Jon this summer,” while detailing that the specifics regarding the timing and venue for the fight are still being finalised. White stated that his goal for the year includes facilitating the matchup between Jones and Aspinall.
Beyond Aspinall, there have been recurring discussions about a potential superfight between Jones and light-heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, a matchup White seemed initially reluctant to pursue. However, White suggested that his stance might be changing, noting Pereira’s intention to compete in the heavyweight division.
“I’m actually the one holding him back,” White explained. He observes there is significant interest in a potential fight between Jones and Pereira, and he believes that if Pereira secures a win in his next bout, the opportunity for these fighters to meet could arise sooner rather than later. White stated, “The fight that everybody wants to see right now is Jones and Aspinall, and then there’s no doubt that Pereira could fight the winner.”
As fans eagerly await the unfolding developments, it appears the UFC is actively working towards high-stakes matchups that could reshape the landscape of the heavyweight division.