In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the MMA world, Daniel Cormier, former UFC light heavyweight champion and two-division titleholder, has issued a bold warning to rising heavyweight star Tom Aspinall: You’re not ready for Jon Jones.

The remark came during an appearance on one of Cormier’s regular media sessions, where he was asked about the future of the heavyweight division and the prospect of a showdown between Aspinall and the UFC’s reigning heavyweight champion, Jon Jones. While the hype surrounding Aspinall has been building for months, Cormier didn’t mince words, delivering what can only be described as a “bombshell” warning about the young Brit’s readiness for the greatest fighter of all time.

Cormier’s Warning: “Aspinall’s Got a Long Way to Go”

Cormier, who knows Jon Jones better than almost anyone—having faced him twice in the Octagon—was blunt when discussing the future of Tom Aspinall and his potential clash with Jones. “I like Tom Aspinall. He’s talented. He’s got all the tools to be a champion. But let’s not rush this idea that he’s ready to take on Jon Jones,” Cormier said, his voice firm with conviction.

“You’re talking about a guy who is arguably the greatest fighter to ever step into the Octagon. And I know how it feels to face Jon. He’s a completely different level,” Cormier continued. “Aspinall has the skills, but he’s not quite there yet. Jon Jones will expose things in your game you didn’t even know were weaknesses. Trust me, I know.”

Why Cormier Thinks Aspinall Isn’t Ready

While Tom Aspinall’s rise through the heavyweight ranks has been nothing short of impressive, Cormier is warning against underestimating the sheer level of experience and tactical mastery Jon Jones brings to the cage. Despite Aspinall’s recent victories—most notably his knockout wins and quick finishes—Cormier believes there are still several areas where the 30-year-old fighter needs to improve before he can challenge someone like Jones.

“Aspinall is fast, he’s got incredible technique, and he’s got power in his hands,” Cormier acknowledged. “But Jones? Jones is a completely different beast. The way he thinks in that cage, the way he adjusts on the fly—it’s something you can’t just replicate overnight. Aspinall doesn’t have that level of fight IQ yet.”

Cormier, who has trained with many of the best fighters in the world and experienced the most elite competition firsthand, pointed to Jones’ ability to make his opponents fight at his pace, his high-level grappling, and his adaptability in the cage as key reasons Aspinall isn’t ready. “You’ve got to understand, when you fight Jon, it’s not just a physical contest; it’s a mental game too. You have to think five steps ahead, and that’s where Aspinall needs time,” Cormier explained.

Aspinall’s Potential: The Sky’s the Limit

Despite his warning, Cormier wasn’t dismissing Tom Aspinall’s potential in the slightest. In fact, he was careful to emphasize that Aspinall is undoubtedly one of the most exciting prospects in MMA right now. With his explosive knockout power, slick movement, and ever-evolving ground game, Aspinall has the tools to be a major force in the heavyweight division.

“Aspinall has all the talent in the world to be a champion, I’m just saying let him take the time to develop,” Cormier stated. “I want to see him fight the top guys, get those experiences, and work his way up. If he keeps evolving the way he has been, we’re talking about a future champion.”

Aspinall’s performances so far have showcased his ability to finish fights quickly and decisively. However, Cormier pointed out that it’s the depth of experience and the ability to adapt to different types of fights—especially under pressure—that separates the elite from the contenders. For example, Cormier mentioned how Jones was able to outmaneuver him in their two encounters, demonstrating the champion’s ability to maintain composure and out-think an opponent in a way few others can.

What Does This Mean for Aspinall’s Future?

Aspinall, who is currently recovering from a knee injury that halted his momentum in 2022, has been vocal about his desire to face the best and claim the heavyweight title. The Englishman has been in discussions about a potential title shot against Jon Jones after Jones’ dominant return to the heavyweight division in March 2023, where he submitted Ciryl Gane to capture the title. However, after hearing Cormier’s comments, the question remains: Does Aspinall have enough time to get ready for a bout with Jones?

Cormier’s warning serves as a reminder of the long road that lies ahead for Aspinall. While the hype surrounding the young fighter is real, Jones’ level of experience and versatility is a huge factor in any potential matchup. Aspinall will need to continue developing his fight IQ, his ability to adjust mid-fight, and, perhaps most importantly, his composure in the face of an opponent who thrives under the biggest lights.

Could a Future Fight Between Jones and Aspinall Happen?

If Tom Aspinall can continue his ascent in the heavyweight division, a potential showdown with Jon Jones may very well happen in the future. However, Cormier’s comments underscore that this matchup should not be rushed. Aspinall needs more time to grow, especially in a division as dangerous as the UFC’s heavyweight class.

In the meantime, Aspinall will likely take on top-tier competition, gaining invaluable experience with each fight. If he can continue to improve, and if he’s able to stay healthy and evolve as a fighter, a championship bout with Jones could become a reality—just not quite yet, according to Cormier.

Cormier’s Legacy and Perspective

It’s also important to note that Cormier’s insight comes from personal experience. Having faced Jon Jones twice in one of the greatest rivalries in UFC history, Cormier knows exactly what it takes to be ready for someone of Jones’ caliber. His words carry weight, and for anyone looking to dethrone Jones, they should take his advice seriously.

“Jon Jones is a different animal. He’s not the same as anyone else you’ll fight,” Cormier said. “Aspinall has the ability to be there one day, but right now? He’s just not ready for Jon.”

As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Tom Aspinall’s journey, and whether or not he can develop into the fighter who can challenge the long-standing champion. With Cormier’s cautionary words ringing in his ears, Aspinall’s path to the top just became a little more complicated—but the future remains bright if he plays his cards right.