The UFC heavyweight division is heating up — but the rising fire that is Tom Aspinall is still waiting for a real challenge. With Jon Jones seemingly uninterested in a unification bout, the question is louder than ever:

Where is the true test for the interim champion?

 Tom spinall: Ready, Waiting, and Dangerous

Tom Aspinall’s performance at UFC 295 was nothing short of terrifying. He destroyed Sergei Pavlovich in the first round, becoming the interim heavyweight champion with speed, composure, and world-class striking.

Since then, Aspinall has made it clear: He wants Jon Jones.

“If you’re the undisputed champ, then prove it,” Aspinall said in a recent interview. “Let’s unify these belts.”

But as Jones continues to rehab from injury and focuses solely on his long-awaited legacy bout with Stipe Miocic, Aspinall — and the fans — are left asking:
What happens if Jones never shows up?

 The Jon Jones Dilemma

Jon Jones captured the heavyweight title in early 2023 with a quick win over Ciryl Gane. But shortly after, he was sidelined with a pectoral injury that delayed his return. Despite Aspinall’s rise, the UFC has kept Jones focused on the aging Miocic — not the surging Brit.

For many, this is starting to feel like a championship logjam.

“Tom Aspinall is the best heavyweight right now, period,” said Michael Bisping. “And if Jon doesn’t fight him, then what are we doing?”

 Where Is the Challenge for Aspinall?

If Jon Jones won’t fight, and if the UFC refuses to strip or vacate the title, Aspinall is stuck in limbo — a champion without a king to dethrone.

So what are his options?

Rematch with Sergei Pavlovich? Unlikely — he already finished him quickly.

Ciryl Gane? Interesting, but Gane hasn’t fought since losing to Jones.

Curtis Blaydes? Tough test stylistically, but not a massive draw.

Jailton Almeida or Alexander Volkov? Still not on Aspinall’s level or timing-wise aligned.

Without Jon Jones, it’s hard to say who can legitimately push Aspinall to the brink.

Aspinall Is in His Prime — Don’t Waste It

At 31 years old, Tom Aspinall is entering his physical prime. He’s healthy, active, and hungry. But if the UFC continues prioritizing legends over contenders, his momentum could be stalled — and fans may lose interest in the division altogether.

“If Jon doesn’t want the fight, fine,” Aspinall said. “But give me someone who does. I’m not here to hold a belt and wait.”

 Final Thoughts

The heavyweight division is supposed to be the most dangerous in all of combat sports. But right now, the most dangerous man in it — Tom Aspinall — is being left without a worthy opponent.

If Jon Jones doesn’t step up, it’s time for the UFC to stop protecting legacies and start building new ones.

Because one thing is clear:
Aspinall isn’t waiting forever.