UFC 309: Undisputed champion Jon Jones says Alex Pereira fight does 'more for legacy’ than ‘annoying’ Tom Aspinall - Eurosport
Released on November 17, 2024, at 10:02 AM GMT.
Jon Jones Aims Higher Than Tom Aspinall Fight
Tom Aspinall's Performance at UFC 309
Photo courtesy: Getty Images
Jon Jones has stated that while he views Tom Aspinall as a “more significant challenge,” winning against former champion Alex Pereira would have a greater impact on his “legacy.”
Aspinall and Pereira are among the fighters who have been rumored to challenge the reigning champion. However, Jones has expressed a stronger desire to fight the Brazilian rather than the "irritating" Aspinall.
"I honestly have no fondness for Tom," Jones shared with TNT Sports. "While I acknowledge he’s an excellent athlete, in my opinion, he poses a greater challenge than Alex Pereira."
"I've spent my entire career battling the top competitors in the world and facing off against the number one contender consistently."
"The problem isn't that I see him as a threat; I simply can't stand Tom. I find him really irritating, and I stand by that opinion."
Periera is the reigning UFC champion in the light heavyweight division and has previously held the title in the middleweight category.
Jones emphasized his desire for “the major bouts” that would enhance the reputation of his already impressive career.
"On the flip side, Alex Pereira has an impressive list of achievements," Jones remarked. "I believe I've just defeated my ninth world champion [Miocic]."
"Defeating Tom Aspinall doesn't help me set a new record or extend my current one."
Defeating Alex Pereira would mark my 10th victory over a UFC champion, which would significantly enhance my legacy.
"I believe the figures are astonishingly high. Alex Pereira has a huge fan base in America, and he's also adored in Brazil. If I were to visit a barber shop and ask, 'Do you know Tom Aspinall?' I doubt anyone outside of UFC fans would recognize him."
"Alex Pereira is a well-known figure in the U.S., and that’s my goal. I'm focused on securing major matchups."
Jones even acknowledged that he would be ready to give up his heavyweight championship if it allowed him the chance to face Pereira in the ring.
“If Alex steps into the ring with me, I’m betting he’ll want it to be for the heavyweight title. We might as well go all out, don’t you think?”
"However, if he isn't interested in competing for the heavyweight title, I'm more than willing to let go of that belt. It's no trouble for me to give it up since I already have 17 of them."
To everyone who thinks I’m blocking progress in the division, that’s not the case. You all can continue with your plans and see if you can turn Aspinall into a big name or whatever else you have in mind.
"I can certainly do it for the sake of the belt. I believe it could turn out to be quite impressive."
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