Option 1: Title Unification Fight Against Tom Aspinall
English sensation Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion, has been carving a path of destruction through the division. Known for his explosive finishes and record-setting average fight time of just over two minutes, Aspinall brings a blend of speed, striking precision, and slick grappling that could pose unique challenges for Jones.
Aspinall’s quick starts and knockout power (12 of 15 wins by KO) could test Jones early in the fight. His grappling pedigree adds another layer to his game, making him one of the most well-rounded heavyweights.
Aspinall has yet to face someone with the IQ, adaptability, and championship experience of Jones. His loss to Curtis Blaydes (via knee injury) also leaves some questions about how he handles adversity.
A fight between Jones and Aspinall would determine the undisputed king of the heavyweight division and could potentially be Jones’ toughest stylistic challenge to date.
If Jones defeats Aspinall, he would cement his legacy as the greatest heavyweight of all time, having unified the titles and defeated one of the most dangerous challengers in recent memory.
Tom Aspinall's Recent Fights:
1. Win vs. Curtis Blaydes (UFC 304, KO, Round 1) – Defended interim belt.
2. Win vs. Sergei Pavlovich (UFC 295, KO, Round 1) – Captured interim title.
3. Win vs. Marcin Tybura (UFC Fight Night, TKO, Round 1) – Dominant return after injury.
4. Loss vs. Curtis Blaydes (UFC Fight Night, TKO via knee injury, Round 1).
5. Win vs. Alexander Volkov (UFC Fight Night, Submission, Round 1).
Option 2: Alex Pereira Moving Up to Heavyweight
Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and former Middleweight Champion, has already made history by conquering two weight classes. A move to heavyweight would set him on a quest to become the first-ever three-division champion in UFC history.
Pereira’s world-class striking, knockout power, and championship experience make him a dangerous opponent. His kickboxing accolades (two-division GLORY champion) and ability to finish fights (10 of 12 wins by KO) would offer a fascinating challenge for Jones.
Pereira’s grappling is still evolving, and Jones would likely exploit this in a wrestling-heavy game plan. Additionally, Pereira’s weight transition to heavyweight could impact his speed and endurance.
This fight would be a spectacle of historical significance, pitting Jones' all-around dominance against Pereira’s devastating striking.
Beating Pereira would elevate Jones to an even higher level of historical greatness by turning back a fellow generational talent with ambitions of unprecedented UFC glory.
Alex Pereira's Recent Fights:
1. Win vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. (UFC 307, TKO, Round 4) – Third title defense.
2. Win vs. Jiří Procházka (UFC 303, TKO, Round 2) – Second title defense.
3. Win vs. Jamahal Hill (UFC 300, KO, Round 1) – First title defense.
4. Win vs. Jiří Procházka (UFC 295, TKO, Round 2) – Won the light heavyweight title.
5. Win vs. Jan Błachowicz (UFC 291, Split Decision) – Successful light heavyweight debut.
