The long-standing rivalry between Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones just got reignited — but this time, Cormier is not stepping back into the Octagon. Instead, he’s firing back from the analyst desk, and his message is crystal clear:
“Stop calling me out and go fight Tom Aspinall.”

 The Callout That Sparked It All

In a recent interview, Jon Jones stirred the pot by once again referencing Daniel Cormier while discussing legacy, title defenses, and “unfinished business” in the heavyweight division. Jones — who is still recovering from injury — hinted that Cormier “never truly beat the best” and suggested that DC’s commentary often comes with “a little bitterness.”

Fans immediately took to social media, speculating whether a third fight between the two legends could ever materialize — despite Cormier being firmly retired since 2020.

 Cormier’s Sharp Response

Cormier wasted no time responding, addressing the situation on his YouTube channel and during ESPN’s “DC & RC” show:

“Jon, you’ve got one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the world waiting on you — his name is Tom Aspinall. That’s the fight to make, not some imaginary rematch with a retired commentator.”

Cormier added that he’s “moved on” from fighting and emphasized that the future of the heavyweight division shouldn’t be bogged down by nostalgia.

“We had our time, we fought twice, and it’s over. The sport has moved on. There’s a new generation now — and if you’re the champion, you need to prove it against the guys who are active.”

Tom Aspinall: The Real Challenge?

Tom Aspinall, the current interim UFC heavyweight champion, has been vocal about his desire to fight Jon Jones, even calling it his “dream matchup.” With Jones sidelined by injury and a long-awaited title unification bout hanging in limbo, pressure is mounting from both fans and fighters to make the fight happen.

Cormier echoed that sentiment, saying:

“If Jon really wants to cement his legacy at heavyweight, it starts with Aspinall. Not by dragging me back into some fantasy storyline.”

 Analyst vs. Fighter

This isn’t the first time Cormier and Jones have exchanged verbal jabs post-retirement. Their rivalry — which includes two legendary fights and years of personal animosity — remains one of the most iconic feuds in MMA history. But Cormier insists that those days are behind him.

“I’m in a different chapter. I’m calling fights, mentoring young athletes, and growing the sport. I’m not here to relive the past — I’m here to help shape the future.”

 What’s Next?

All eyes are now on Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall, a fight that fans, fighters, and analysts alike want to see. Whether Jones will accept the challenge or continue circling around old rivalries remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: Daniel Cormier has closed the door, and he wants Jones to step into the present — and face the most dangerous threat in the division today.