With the MMA community up in arms about Jon Jones refusing to fight Tom Aspinall, a former UFC heavyweight star has risen to his defense.
The ex-contender is adamant that all is not as it seems.

Brendan Schaub defends Jon Jones over ‘ducking’ accusations
On Saturday night, Jon Jones will put his title on the line against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, New York, USA, in one of the most controversial match-ups in MMA history.
While the challenger is undeniably a legend, having not fought since losing to Francis Ngannou several years ago, and with Tom Aspinall on the rise, the fans are understandably fuming.
However, if ‘Bones’ was willing to give the fans the match-up they want to see should he successfully defend his strap at the weekend, then perhaps the community would cut him some slack.
But for one reason or another, in various interviews, he’s flat-out refused to fight the dangerous Brit.
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Regardless, Brendan Schaub has his back, with the UFC veteran claiming, that Jones is being smart, and doesn’t have to do anything he doesn’t want to.
On his Thiccc Boy YouTube channel, the 41-year-old said: “Figure it out, Jon Jones is playing the game. ‘I’m not worried about Tom, I’ll fight Alex’ ― that builds this narrative. It’s the Real Housewives of the UFC. It’s a soap opera, that’s all it is.
“It’s not on Jon to help Tom get more famous in the space. Tom needs Jon; Jon doesn’t need anybody. He can do whatever he wants; he’s earned that right. Figure it out.”
Is Jon Jones injured ahead of his fight with Stipe Miocic at UFC 309
While most MMA enthusiasts are convinced that Jones will beat Miocic with ease, others have noticed something that has allowed an element of doubt to creep into their minds.
Recently, the champion uploaded some training footage to social media and caught the attention of the public.
During the clip, the icon looked powerful as he smashed the pads.
However, eagle-eyed viewers a potential injury that could spell disaster for the heavyweight King.
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