UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones teased that a date for his return is set in a now-deleted post on social media, after teasing interim champion, Tom Aspinall.
Interim heavyweight champion, Tom Aspinall, briefly campaigned for a title unification fight against Jon Jones but dropped it after realizing ‘Bones’ had no interest in the fight.
Despite that, Jones has continuously talked about the Brit on social media, teasing the UK MMA fans in the process.
Jon Jones teases his return date in now-deleted post
Jones was originally scheduled to defend his title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 this past November. After tearing his pectoral muscle in training, he withdrew from the fight which resulted in the interim title being introduced.
Stipe Miocic hasn’t fought since 2021 when he was brutally knocked out by Francis Ngannou.
This past Thursday UFC CEO, Dana White, announced that Tom Aspinall will defend his interim heavyweight title against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 on July 27th.
Taking a dig at Aspinall being only the fourth fighter in UFC history to defend an interim title, Jones labeled the fight ‘for the official number one contender spot’.
Despite there needing to be a title unification fight, Jones was unwilling to fight Aspinall next and instead, the fight against Stipe Miocic will be re-booked.
In an attempt to shift the focus back onto himself, the 36-year-old undisputed champion posted his return date on social media, but has since deleted the post.
“November 9th Madison Square Garden, here I come baby.” Jones tweeted on X.
Jon Jones wants Curtis Blaydes to beat Tom Aspinall
Although Jones’ next fight is yet to be officially confirmed by the promotion, he and Miocic are seemingly preparing for a November meeting, at Madison Square Garden.
It is unclear as of now whether this will be ‘Bones’ last fight in the UFC, as he has teased previously that it will be.
Despite the desire from fans to see Jones vs Aspinall, the champion is hoping that ‘Razor’ Blaydes can pull off the upset on Aspinall’s home soil.
“Sure (I want Blaydes to win), if I’m being completely honest, I always root for the Americans, especially American wrestlers. At the end of the day no matter who wins, Curtis is no walk in the park either.
“The only lane I’ve ever known, the fast one. I know no other speed. Can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at the big boy table.” Jones commented on X.
The heavyweight champion went on to break down both fighters’ chances of winning the fight, stating that he ‘wouldn’t be surprised if Curtis won’.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Curtis won, I’ve seen scenarios like this time and time again. Dude prematurely drinking his own Kool-Aid ends up with huge pieces of humble pie. I mean if Sergei (Pavlovich) can touch Tom that easily, I’m sure Curtis can too.
“When Curtis decides to go, he’s a lot faster than people realize, and he hits hard. A few well-timed shots and that strong top game, it could be a long night for old Tommy boy.” Jones added.