While fans express their frustration with Jon Jones, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion seems to be savoring his time away from the Octagon. In contrast, Tom Aspinall is ready to move forward in his career rather than wait indefinitely for a potential matchup with Jones, which may never materialize. Many fans have sided with the interim champion during this protracted situation, calling for the champion to be stripped of his title. Aspinall has even suggested that Jones might already be retired.
While some, including former UFC champion Michael Bisping, remain hopeful that the highly anticipated fight will eventually take place, Jones has yet to provide any indication that he plans to return. A UFC legend who has faced Jones in the Octagon believes that the heavyweight champion is enjoying this unique situation, as it’s a new experience for him. Chael Sonnen, known for his candid insights, asserts that Jon Jones is relishing the power he holds regarding a potential matchup with Aspinall.
In an exclusive interview with Bloody Elbow, Sonnen stated, “If you give any human being power, it’s going to be very rare that they don’t wield it.” He elaborated that despite Jones' impressive accomplishments, he has never been a significant asset for the UFC in terms of revenue generation. Sonnen referenced Max Kellerman’s earlier comments, noting that only two athletes—Mike Tyson and Oscar De La Hoya—have been able to draw fans entirely by themselves.
“I’m not actually insulting Jon, but it is a reality that Jon has never been good for business,” Sonnen explained. “He comes in, takes a big paycheck, and while they respect his work, you can’t deny that he’s never sold out a fight. You could walk up to the window on the day of his fight and still buy tickets.”
Sonnen believes that Jones is now in a position to significantly influence the outcome of what could be one of the biggest fights in UFC history. The stakes are high for both the UFC and Aspinall, and Sonnen feels that Jones is enjoying his newfound control. “For the first time ever, there’s an opponent that people want to see Jon face, and that opponent might even be the betting favorite,” he noted. “Aspinall, who is significantly larger than Jones, represents a fresh challenge.”
Despite the ongoing saga, Sonnen is optimistic that Jon Jones is merely waiting for the right opportunity to unify the heavyweight titles. He suggests that contrary to popular belief, Jones is not attempting to dodge the fight. “If I put myself in his shoes, he’s got the right to enjoy this moment,” Sonnen stated. He acknowledged the criticism surrounding Jones’ media comments about financial demands, but he doesn’t believe Jones is genuinely trying to price himself out of the fight.
“I think he’s playing with the fans and waiting for that phone call to come. That’s what I believe,” Sonnen concluded, hinting that the heavyweight champion will eventually return to the Octagon to face Aspinall.
