The UFC’s 2025 schedule is marked by speculation over whether Jon Jones will unify the heavyweight titles against Tom Aspinall, as Jones appears more interested in a potentially easier and lucrative superfight with Alex Pereira, possibly due to apprehension about facing Aspinall’s formidable skills.
As the UFC schedule kicks off in 2025, there’s one big ‘what if’ hanging over the sport: will Jon Jones actually unify the heavyweight titles against Tom Aspinall?
Jones vs. Aspinall is arguably the most anticipated fight of the year. UFC CEO Dana White even guarantees it’ll happen within the next year. Aspinall deserves a shot at becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion, yet Jones seems to dismiss his challenge. Instead, he’s eyeing a potential superfight with Alex Pereira.
Jones has hinted he might vacate his UFC title for a chance to face someone like Pereira. Pereira’s a rising star, claiming titles in two divisions in just seven fights. Yet, Jan Blachowicz thinks Jones’ interest in Pereira isn’t about money or legacy but rather avoiding a tough matchup with Aspinall.
“I think [Jon Jones] does this because Alex Pereira is now a big star in the UFC,” Blachowicz told MMA Fighting. “Everybody knows him.” But Blachowicz believes Jones should fight Aspinall and suspects he’s a bit scared of him.
“Aspinall could really stop him and beat him,” Blachowicz added. “Jones might think he can take Pereira down and control him, but with Aspinall, it won’t be so easy.”
Blachowicz nearly derailed Pereira’s rise in the 205-pound division, showcasing how to beat him.
He battled to a razor-close split decision against Pereira by employing a grappling-heavy strategy. This approach neutralized many of Pereira’s dangerous weapons from his GLORY Kickboxing days.
While Blachowicz is efficient with wrestling and takedowns, Jones is possibly one of MMA’s most lethal ground technicians—a clear threat to someone like Pereira.
Meanwhile, Aspinall is a legit heavyweight with knockout power and world-class submission skills. He’s got an impressive 8-1 record in the UFC, demolishing most opponents in the first round.
“It would be a very tough fight for Jon Jones with Aspinall,” Blachowicz said. “That’s why he doesn’t talk much about Aspinall.” Could they be waiting for bigger money? Maybe they’ve got plans.
Blachowicz can’t predict the future but has a vested interest in what happens with Pereira. He’s been seeking a rematch since their first bout ended.
It’s unclear what’ll unfold in 2025, but Blachowicz wonders if Jones seeks one final payday against an easier opponent before retiring for good.
“Maybe he wants to fight Pereira, not lose, and then finish his career,” Blachowicz speculated. “You’d have to ask him, not me.”