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Pimblett Picks Jones Over Aspinall in Potential Heavyweight Clash, But Sees Path to Glory for UK Star
The MMA world is buzzing with speculation about what could be the biggest heavyweight showdown in UFC history. While Tom Aspinall continues his meteoric rise as interim champion, the shadow of Jon Jones still looms large over the division. Now, Liverpool’s own Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has weighed in on this dream matchup – and his take might surprise you.
In a recent interview, Pimblett acknowledged he’d favor Jones if the two heavyweight titans were to meet, but he also outlined a scenario where his fellow Brit could make history by becoming the first fighter to finish the seemingly unstoppable “Bones.”
Experience vs. Explosiveness: Breaking Down the Matchup
Let’s be honest – this potential clash represents the classic battle between experience and explosive talent. Jones, widely considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time, brings unparalleled fight IQ and adaptability. Meanwhile, Aspinall possesses the kind of devastating power and athleticism that has seen him finish all six of his UFC wins, none going beyond the second round.
“I think Jon Jones beats most people, to be honest,” Pimblett stated. “But if anyone has a chance, it’s Tom. His speed at heavyweight is something else – it’s like watching a middleweight move with heavyweight power.”
The Liverpool fighter continued: “If Tom caught him early and became the first to stop Jones, it would be the biggest moment in UK MMA history. Bigger than Bisping winning the belt, even. But Jones isn’t the GOAT for nothing.”
Why Jones Would Be Favored
When breaking down why he leans toward Jones, Pimblett highlighted several factors:
- Jones’ unmatched championship experience
- His ability to adapt mid-fight
- The wrestling advantage that neutralized Ciryl Gane
- Jon’s remarkable fight IQ and game-planning
I’ve watched Jones reinvent himself multiple times throughout his career. From the spinning elbows of his early days to the wrestling clinic against Gane, he always finds a way. That adaptability makes him the toughest puzzle in MMA to solve.
Aspinall’s Path to Victory
While Pimblett favors Jones, he sees a clear path to victory for Aspinall:
| Aspinall’s Advantages | How They Could Matter Against Jones |
|---|---|
| Superior Hand Speed | Could land before Jones can react or establish distance |
| One-Punch KO Power | Jones has never been truly hurt – this could be the first |
| High-Level BJJ | Potential to threaten if Jones attempts takedowns |
| Youth Advantage | Fresher athlete with less wear and tear |
“Tom’s speed is his secret weapon,” Pimblett explained. “Jones has faced power before, but not combined with that kind of quickness at heavyweight. If Tom lands clean in the first round before Jones can download his timing, night-night.”
The Matchup We Deserve
While Dana White has been noncommittal about Jones’ next opponent, the MMA community increasingly views Aspinall as the only fight that makes sense. Jones’ potential retirement without facing the interim champion would leave a permanent asterisk on his heavyweight legacy.
The situation reminds me of when Georges St-Pierre retired without facing Anderson Silva. Years later, fans still debate what could have been. Jones vs. Aspinall feels like that kind of historic matchup – one that defines an era and answers the ultimate question of whether the technical master can overcome the explosive new breed.
What’s Next for Both Fighters?
With Jones recovering from injury and Aspinall fresh off his devastating win over Curtis Blaydes, timing could actually work perfectly for this showdown in late 2024. The UFC would be wise to book this for International Fight Week or a massive UK stadium show.
Pimblett, meanwhile, continues his own climb up the lightweight rankings, but as a proud Englishman, he’s clearly invested in seeing his countryman get the opportunity to shock the world against Jones.
The Final Word
Whether you agree with Paddy’s assessment or not, one thing is clear: Jones vs. Aspinall represents the kind of generational clash that transcends the sport. As fans, we deserve to see this question answered in the octagon rather than debated endlessly on social media.
What do you think? Does Aspinall have what it takes to do what no one else has done and finish Jones? Or would the GOAT add another chapter to his legendary career? Let us know in the comments!
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