2 Ways Tom Aspinall Dethrones Jon Jones as the Undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champ in 2025
The potential clash between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall is arguably the biggest fight in MMA today. UFC President Dana White has even labeled it as “the greatest fight in the history of the sport.” For the first time in recent memory, an undisputed heavyweight champion like Jon Jones is entering as the betting underdog.
So, how could Tom Aspinall, the young and naturally gifted heavyweight, dethrone Jones? According to legendary MMA referee ‘Big’ John McCarthy, there are two possible scenarios that could crown the British star as the undisputed champion by the end of 2025.
1. Aspinall Beats Jon Jones in the Octagon
Tom Aspinall possesses attributes that make him a formidable threat to Jones. A natural heavyweight, he combines explosive speed, technical prowess, and devastating power. His well-rounded skill set has drawn comparisons to Jones himself, with many arguing that Aspinall’s youth and dynamic style could give him the edge.
‘Big’ John McCarthy has gone on record predicting that Aspinall could be the first fighter to defeat Jones. “I think Tom Aspinall will be the UFC heavyweight champion in 2025. He’ll face Jon Jones and could be the first to beat him,” McCarthy shared on the Weighing In podcast.
Aspinall’s path to victory could involve:
- Exploiting Jones’ Age and Wear: At 36 years old, Jones is no longer in his physical prime. Aspinall’s pace and explosiveness might be too much for the older champion to handle.
- Using Natural Heavyweight Strength: Unlike Jones, who moved up from light heavyweight, Aspinall is a lifelong heavyweight with raw power to overwhelm Jones.
- Keeping the Fight Standing: Aspinall’s striking is polished, and if he can control the distance and avoid Jones’ wrestling, he could outstrike the former pound-for-pound king.
If Aspinall dethrones Jones inside the octagon, it would mark a monumental shift in UFC history.
2. Aspinall Becomes Champion by Default After Jones Retires
Another plausible scenario is that Jon Jones retires without ever facing Aspinall. Whether due to age, injury, or lack of interest in taking on such a dangerous opponent, Jones stepping away from the sport would leave the heavyweight division in flux.
In this case, the UFC could elevate Aspinall to undisputed champion status by organizing a fight between him and another top contender. This would still position Aspinall as the division’s kingpin by the end of 2025, albeit without the historic victory over Jones.
McCarthy shared this possibility, stating, “If Jones doesn’t fight him, I see the UFC putting Aspinall against someone else for the title, and he’ll win. Either way, I believe Aspinall will end the year as the undisputed champion.”
Why Aspinall is the Favorite
The hype surrounding Aspinall is rooted in his dominant performances against top-ranked heavyweights. His ability to finish fights quickly and efficiently has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. Unlike Jones, who has relied on decision victories in recent years, Aspinall has proven he can dismantle opponents in the early rounds.
His composure, coupled with a natural athleticism rarely seen in the heavyweight division, makes him a unique challenge for anyone, even a legend like Jon Jones.
What’s Next for the Heavyweight Division?
The UFC heavyweight division has never been more exciting. Whether Jones steps into the octagon against Aspinall or retires, all signs point to the British fighter becoming the undisputed champion.
For now, all eyes are on UFC 311 and the buildup to what could be the most significant heavyweight fight in MMA history. Will Jon Jones take on the challenge, or will Aspinall ascend to the throne by other means?
