UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall has once again proven that sportsmanship and respect still have a place in combat sports. He sends heartfelt goodbye to retired UFC legend Jon Jones
Following the official retirement of UFC legend Jon Jones, Aspinall shared a heartfelt message during his recent appearance on The Diary of a CEO podcast. Rather than focusing on rivalry or missed opportunities, the newly crowned undisputed champion took a moment to honor Jones’ incredible career and wish him well in the next chapter of his life.
Many fans had hoped for a bout between Jones and Aspinall. However, with Jones stepping away from the sport, that highly anticipated matchup will never happen. Despite that, Aspinall chose the high road.
If anyone expected Aspinall to badmouth Jones after the announcement, they’re mistaken. Aspinall has consistently shown maturity beyond his years in the fight game, he did just that once again. He sent Jones into retirement with a classy parting message during a recent appearance on “The Diary of a CEO” podcast,
Aspinall was asked what he would say to Jones if he had the chance. The champ sent his rival into retirement with a classy and heartfelt parting message.
“I think he’s had an amazing career, and I think he should enjoy the rest of his life,” Aspinall said. “If he truly feels like he’s done enough—which he keeps saying that he does—he will be at peace. He doesn’t need me or anyone else to tell him how good he’s done. He’ll know it himself. I hope that he’s enjoying his life, he’s enjoying his family, and that he’s celebrating his career, because it’s been amazing.”
During the same interview, Aspinall laid out plans for a busy year. It certainly makes sense that he wants to stay active after spending so much of his recent career waiting for Jones.
“I’m going to be fighting hopefully twice this year,” Aspinall said. “That’s my plan, at least. I think I’ve wasted enough time. We’re looking to get a fight booked quick and it’s looking like it’s going to be pretty soon, anyway. And then hopefully, if everything goes well in the first one, I’m uninjured — which is easier said than done getting through a fight with a guy my size and coming out with no injuries. “But if I can do that, I would like to fight at the end of the year as well. That’d be perfect.”
In a tough sport like UFC, it’s nice and impressive to see fighters show respect. The new champions aren’t just strong they have good hearts too. By honoring those who came before them, they’re showing true greatness.
The future of the UFC looks bright, and full of class.
