Tom Aspinall has had enough. The UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion is no longer holding back his frustrations over the promotion’s handling of the Jon Jones situation, calling out what he believes is a clear case of favoritism and demanding clarity for the future of the heavyweight division.

In a fiery interview this week, the British star didn’t mince words:

“I’m done waiting. I’ve been patient. I’ve been respectful. But now it’s getting ridiculous. The UFC is clearly protecting Jon Jones, and I’m not here to be anybody’s backup plan.”

 The Jones Delay Dilemma

The root of Aspinall’s frustration? The ongoing delay surrounding Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic — a fight that was originally scheduled for late 2023 before Jones pulled out with a pectoral injury. While Jones has been sidelined, Aspinall claimed interim gold by knocking out Sergei Pavlovich in the first round at UFC 295.

Despite that dominant performance, the UFC has made it clear: Jones vs. Miocic still holds priority, and Aspinall will need to wait — or take other fights in the meantime.

“It’s like I’m the champ… but not really,” Aspinall said.
“I’ve got the belt, I’ve knocked out the scariest guy in the division, and yet I’m still sitting on the sidelines while Jones gets all the protection and special treatment.”

 Calling for Action

Aspinall is now demanding that the UFC either:

Strip Jon Jones of the undisputed title if he’s unable to return soon, or

Book a unification bout between Aspinall and Jones — no more delays.

“I respect Jon as the GOAT. But you don’t get to hold a whole division hostage. If he’s not ready, let’s move on. Make me the real champion, and he can come fight me when he’s healthy. Enough is enough.”

 Aspinall vs The World?

While Aspinall is eager for a showdown with Jones, he’s also made it clear that he’s ready to fight anyone — including Miocic, Ciryl Gane, or even a rematch with Pavlovich — if it means keeping the division alive.

“I’ll fight anyone. But what I won’t do is keep sitting around while the UFC caters to one guy. I’m young, I’m in my prime, and I want to fight now.”

Fans Are With Him

Across social media, fans have largely sided with Aspinall:

“He’s not wrong. Jon’s legendary, but this is holding up the division.”

“Tom Aspinall is the future of heavyweight. Give him the real belt already.”

“UFC needs to stop playing favorites. Let the division move forward.”

Many believe the UFC is risking momentum in the heavyweight division, with stars like Aspinall left inactive while waiting for a superfight that may or may not happen.

Final Thoughts

Tom Aspinall’s message is loud and clear:
He’s earned his shot. He’s not a placeholder. And he refuses to be ignored.

Whether Jon Jones returns this year or not, the UFC has a decision to make — either let the division breathe, or risk losing one of its brightest rising stars to frustration and inactivity.

The pressure is building. The clock is ticking.
And Tom Aspinall is DONE waiting.