Tom Aspinall has had enough of the waiting game—and he just made it crystal clear that Jon Jones is in his crosshairs.

Ahead of his blockbuster clash with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321, the interim heavyweight champ didn’t hold back, calling out the reigning heavyweight king in a fiery statement that has the entire MMA world on edge.

“Stop running, Jon. Be a real champion and fight me,” Aspinall declared. “I’ll handle Gane, and then there’s nowhere left to hide.”

With just days left before UFC 321, Aspinall’s bold callout has added even more fuel to what was already one of the most anticipated events of the year.

Aspinall’s rise through the heavyweight ranks has been nothing short of spectacular. After demolishing Sergei Pavlovich in under two minutes and claiming the interim title, the UK-based powerhouse is now set to face Ciryl Gane, a slick striker and former title challenger, in a matchup that will likely determine the undisputed No. 1 contender for Jon Jones’ heavyweight crown.

But Aspinall isn’t just thinking about Gane—he’s already aiming higher. “I respect Gane, but let’s be real—I’m not here to just hold an interim belt. I’m here to take out Jon Jones,” Aspinall told reporters during UFC 321 fight week.

Jon Jones has been under increasing scrutiny in recent months. Since capturing the heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane in 2023, “Bones” has been sidelined due to injury and has yet to defend his belt. While a superfight against Stipe Miocic was teased, delays and uncertainty have led to growing frustration from fans and fighters alike.

Many, including Aspinall, feel that Jones is dodging the new generation of heavyweights. “He talks legacy, but real legacy means facing the best. Right now, that’s me,” said Aspinall.

The callout has sparked intense debate across the MMA community. Is Jon Jones protecting his legacy—or playing the long game?

Dana White Reacts

UFC President Dana White didn’t miss the moment. Speaking to reporters after weigh-ins, White addressed the growing tension.

“Tom’s doing everything right. He’s fighting killers, finishing fights, and staying active. If he beats Gane, I’d love to see him fight Jon,” White said. “But with Jon, it’s always a matter of timing. He’ll fight when he’s ready.”

Still, fans aren’t buying the delays. The pressure is mounting for Jones to either defend or vacate, and Aspinall’s growing popularity is only turning up the heat.

If this fight gets made, it could be one of the most dangerous and high-stakes heavyweight title bouts in modern MMA history. You’ve got:

Jon Jones: The GOAT, undefeated in over a decade, now reigning at heavyweight.

Tom Aspinall: The explosive new generation talent, with speed, knockout power, and a ground game to match.

Stylistically, it’s a dream fight. Legacy vs momentum. Experience vs hunger. And both men are talking like everything is on the line.