The MMA world is buzzing after two shocking developments that could reshape the UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.

Jon Jones sends UFC fans into frenzy with fresh Tom Aspinall fight update: 'We've agreed' | talkSPORT

First, fans demanding a Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall showdown might want to pump the brakes — because Jon Jones may be legally barred from even discussing the fight.
And second, Alex Pereira — the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion — just hinted at something that stunned fans: possible retirement.

Here’s what we know so far.

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 Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall? Not So Fast…

While fans and fighters alike have called for a unification bout between undisputed heavyweight champ Jon Jones and interim champ Tom Aspinall, things behind the scenes may be more complicated than expected.

Jon Jones accused of 'conning the public' by Tom Aspinall as fight talk frustrations boil over

According to multiple sources close to the situation, Jon Jones is under specific contractual and legal restrictions related to his current UFC obligations — and that may be why he’s remained silent on Aspinall.

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“He’s not ducking. He legally can’t say much about that fight,” said one UFC insider.
“The Stipe fight is locked in first. Until that’s resolved — he can’t engage publicly or negotiate around Tom.”

That means UFC 309 (expected Jones vs. Miocic) is likely happening first — with no Aspinall unification fight until at least 2026, if Jones doesn’t retire first.

Alex Pereira: Jon Jones asserts Alex Pereira and Tom Aspinall "are not on the same level", explains why 'Poatan' fight is worth risking his stellar resume

 Tom Aspinall Responds

Aspinall, frustrated but composed, recently told reporters:

“If he’s injured or not ready, I get it. But if he just doesn’t want to fight — the division can’t wait forever.”

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 Alex Pereira Teases RETIREMENT?

Meanwhile, UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira shook up the MMA world during an interview this week when he strongly hinted that his MMA career might be winding down — despite being at the top.

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“I’ve done more in three years than many do in ten. I’ll decide after my next fight. But I’ve already made history.”

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Pereira has:

Won UFC titles in two divisions

Defeated former champs like Israel Adesanya, Jan Blachowicz, and Jiri Prochazka

Headlined massive cards in record time since his UFC debut

 

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Some believe Pereira is eyeing a move to boxing — or simply wants to walk away from MMA at his peak, without taking long-term damage.

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What Does This Mean for the UFC?

Jon Jones: Fans might not get the Aspinall fight they crave — at least not until after the Stipe bout and contract issues are cleared.

Alex Pereira: If he retires soon, the 205-pound division will once again be in chaos, likely sparking a title vacancy and a race among contenders.

 

There Is a Part of Jon [Jones] That Is Worried” About Getting “Flatlined” by Tom Aspinall, Claims Ex-UFC Star - EssentiallySports

 Final Word

The UFC may be headed for a major shakeup at heavyweight and light heavyweight — with two of its biggest stars possibly stepping away or silenced for now.

Jon Jones can’t (legally) talk.

Alex Pereira may be ready to walk.

And fans? We’re just holding our breath — waiting to see if either of these legends makes their next move.