Jon Jones, often hailed as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time, faces a unique challenge. His legacy hangs in the balance as he navigates the heavyweight division. But what if he loses to Tom Aspinall? Former champion Daniel Cormier believes that such an outcome could alter the perception of Jones as the sport’s GOAT (Greatest of All Time).
Fans have clamored for a Jon Jones vs. Aspinall showdown. However, Jones, Miocic, and UFC CEO Dana White remain steadfast that the fight to make is Jones vs. Miocic. The stakes are high, and the outcome could significantly impact Jones’ legacy.
Daniel Cormier’s Perspective
During a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Daniel Cormier (DC) shared his thoughts on the matter. He emphasized that if Jones were to lose to Aspinall, doubts would inevitably arise:
“If he loses to Aspinall, people will start to question if he is that guy. That’s how it works. For so long, there was never a question that Anderson Silva was also going to be considered the greatest of all time. He starts getting beaten towards the end of his career… Had he not started losing those fights, he would have been sat right by Jon Jones and Georges St-Pierre, if not above them [on the GOAT list].”
Daniel Cormier claims that fans will begin to question Jon Jones' legacy if he loses to Tom Aspinall 😳
Thoughts? 🤔#UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/MH8a9N4qUx
— Sportskeeda MMA (@sportskeedaMMA) May 11, 2024
Cormier draws parallels to Anderson Silva’s career trajectory. Silva, once untouchable, faced defeats later in his career, which impacted his GOAT status. Cormier suggests that Jones could face a similar fate if he stumbles against Aspinall.
Jon Jones Hits Back
Jon Jones, on the other hand, has reaffirmed his preference for a legacy fight against Stipe Miocic. In a recent statement, he wrote:
“I’m in the middle of a pretty clear decision… stick to exact and original plans, and fight the man with all the accolades. Or, completely disregard all of the Stipe training I’ve put in and fight another potential hype train that may not even be around in three years. I am not changing my plans for anyone…”
As the heavyweight division awaits its defining clash, fans and pundits watch closely. Will Jon Jones maintain his GOAT status, or will Tom Aspinall’s rise alter the narrative? Only time—and perhaps a high-stakes fight—will reveal the answer.
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