UFC fans are strongly urging Dana White to make the difficult decision and strip Jon Jones of his heavyweight championship.
A major title unification bout between Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall has been anticipated since November but has yet to happen.
This is despite reports that UFC management was prepared to deviate from their usual pay scale to meet Jones` significant financial demands for the fight.
Jones, once considered the best pound-for-pound fighter, has frustrated MMA fans recently with his indecisiveness regarding potential retirement.
He again left fight fans in suspense this week during a recent interview.
In an interview with Deepcut and VicBlends, Jones expressed uncertainty about his competitive fighting future. He mentioned he sees himself as a lifelong martial artist, potentially coaching or participating in exhibitions, and feels his position allows him more options to step away and return compared to other fighters. He stated he is currently focusing on personal well-being.
Fans expressed significant frustration online. Many called for Jones to be stripped immediately, suggesting alternative matchups like Ciryl Gane vs. Aspinall in the UK. Comments included sentiments like “Strip him already” and criticism about the time taken for his heavyweight preparation. Some felt that if Jones is uncertain, he should be considered retired and allowed to return only to challenge for the belt. Others criticized the UFC itself for not taking action, arguing the delay damages the brand and alienates fans.
Jones has faced accusations of avoiding a fight with Tom Aspinall since his initial heavyweight title defense against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 last November.
Fan patience with the future Hall of Famer is reportedly running very thin, though he maintains he is not misleading anyone.
He recently posted on X, stating that fans are misdirecting their frustration, claiming he informed the UFC of his plans long ago and doesn`t know why the promotion hasn`t disclosed them publicly.
Jones` claim that White and others in the UFC were aware of his plans followed closely after the UFC president GUARANTEED he`d return to the octagon this year.
He told Adam Glyn: “Jon Jones will be fighting in 2025. 100 per cent.”
Percy Harlow