Former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones might be gearing up for a comeback now that Tom Aspinall has relinquished his title. This possibility was suggested by Jones’ teammate and UFC heavyweight prospect Gable Steveson, who mentioned before UFC 331 that Aspinall vacating the belt could inspire Jones to return to the Octagon.
In an interview with RMC Sport Combat leading up to UFC 331, Steveson expressed that the open heavyweight title might motivate Jones to make his UFC return. “I think Jon would like to come back as well. Seeing this belt become available might have reignited his passion. I’ve witnessed what Jon is still capable of, and I believe he can compete at the highest level again. Perhaps his moment will come once more, and I believe it will,” Steveson stated.
The situation carries a bit of irony since Aspinall’s interim title was elevated to undisputed champion after Jones himself vacated the heavyweight crown when he retired from MMA last June. Despite stepping away from fighting for over a year, Jones may be reconsidering his retirement, according to Steveson’s insights.
Should Jones decide to return, a potential rematch with interim UFC heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane—whom Jones defeated in 2023 to claim the heavyweight title—could be on the horizon. Such a bout would be one of the UFC’s marquee matchups and undoubtedly a major draw if negotiations come to fruition.
Even though Jones and UFC president Dana White don’t always align, White prioritizes ticket sales and viewer interest, and Jones remains one of the sport’s biggest attractions. Therefore, if Jones aims for a comeback, it’s likely the UFC would grant him an immediate shot at the championship.
Fan Take: Jon Jones’ possible return injects thrilling uncertainty into the heavyweight division, reigniting excitement among fighting fans eager to see if he can reclaim his dominance. This development could elevate the sport’s profile and create must-watch matchups that keep MMA at the forefront of combat sports entertainment.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
