Jon Jones reportedly seeks six months for Tom Aspinall fight as Ariel Helwani hints summer timeline is fading: "The clock is ticking"
MMA journalist Ariel Helwani cast doubts over the summer timeline for Jon Jones' return against Tom Aspinall, as 'Bones' reportedly needs at least six months of camp for the potential heavyweight title unification bout. UFC CEO Dana White had recently hinted that Jones might return this summer.
Helwani said:
“The clock is ticking… It feels like if summer is the goal, it’s starting to slip away a bit”
Check out Ariel Helwani’s comments below (via @HappyPunch on X):
Aspinall has been demanding a title unification bout since Jones' first successful heavyweight title defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309.
However, Jones has shown a desire in fighting Alex Pereira instead and has displayed little to no interest in the Aspinall fight. 'Bones' emphasized that it would not add significant value to his resume and wants to be compensated adequately to face the UK native.
Tom Aspinall grows frustrated waiting for Jon Jones fight
It remains uncertain whether Jon Jones will return to fight Tom Aspinall for the unification bout or announce his retirement from the sport.
In his recent appearance on Morson Sport, Aspinall expressed his frustration over the prolonged wait, saying:
"I've had enough talking about it, mate. Honestly bored of it. We'll see what happens, yeah, we will just see. I'm ready to fight whenever they tell me. So, just let me know and I will be there."
Check out Tom Aspinall’s comments below (2:10):