Tom Aspinall was sternly warned by Jon Jones, “This is just the beginning,” following retirement rumors.
After his decisive victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, Jon Jones reaffirmed his status as one of the greatest heavyweight fighters in UFC history. Despite swirling rumors of retirement, the reigning heavyweight champion dismissed the idea, stating he still has several fights left before hanging up his gloves. As Jones prepares for the next chapter, his sights are reportedly set on Tom Aspinall, delivering a pointed message: “This is just the beginning.”
Jones Solidifies His Legacy
With his win against Miocic, Jon Jones not only defended his heavyweight title but also cemented his reputation as a dominant force in the division. After a year of inactivity, Jones returned to the spotlight for all the right reasons. Reflecting on his journey, he shared a heartfelt message through his X (formerly Twitter) account:
“Oh man, 2024… what a year. I must say, this year has been special. It was filled with challenges, blessings, and opportunities, and I’m so grateful for this journey,” Jones wrote. He continued: “None of it would have been possible without those who have stood by me along the way—my family, my team, my coaches, and, of course, all of you who’ve supported me every step of the way.”
Jones also highlighted his personal growth over the past year, both as a fighter and as a man. He credited his support system for helping him remain grounded amid challenges. “This year has been about growth—on the mat, in the octagon, on screen, and most importantly, as a man and a father,” he emphasized.
A Message to Aspinall
While Jones expressed gratitude for his supporters, he didn’t shy away from addressing his future in the sport. Ending his message with a strong declaration, he stated: “And believe me when I say this—this is just the beginning. Let’s keep building. God bless!” Many interpret this as a direct challenge to Tom Aspinall, who has been rising rapidly in the heavyweight rankings. Aspinall’s technical prowess and athleticism have made him a potential threat, but Jones’ confidence remains unwavering.
Jones’ Personal Triumphs in 2024
This year wasn’t just about success in the octagon for Jon Jones. He also celebrated a significant personal victory in June when he secured 50/50 custody of his son. Sharing the news, Jones said: “I just got awarded 50/50 custody of my son. I’m the happiest dad in the world today.” While details surrounding the case remain scarce, this milestone marked a deeply emotional moment for the champion.
Even former rival Daniel Cormier acknowledged Jones’ unparalleled impact on MMA, highlighting his contributions to the sport and his ability to remain a dominant force despite personal and professional challenges.
Looking Ahead: Aspinall vs. Jones?
As 2025 approaches, all eyes are on the potential clash between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones. Aspinall’s rapid ascent in the UFC’s heavyweight division has been impressive, but taking on a seasoned champion like Jones is a daunting task. For Jones, the fight represents another opportunity to further his legacy and prove that his dominance is far from over.
Whether this showdown becomes a reality remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Jon Jones is not ready to step away from the octagon just yet. As he continues to build on his storied career, his message to Aspinall and the rest of the division rings loud and clear: “This is just the beginning.”
