Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall Will Break History—Who Will Be the Longest-Reigning Champion?

In the high-stakes, adrenaline-filled world of UFC, championship titles and record-breaking reigns define the legacies of fighters. As the UFC heavyweight division remains at the center of fan attention, two dominant forces—Jon “Bones” Jones and Tom Aspinall—stand on the verge of shattering historical records that could cement their positions in the sport’s pantheon.

Jon Jones, a veteran of the Octagon and a living legend in the sport, is chasing the longest title reign in UFC heavyweight history. Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall, the rising star and current interim champion, is vying to become the longest-reigning interim heavyweight champion. With both fighters eyeing historic milestones, the stage is set for what could be a monumental clash or a series of events that redefine the division’s future.

Jon Jones: Aiming for the Longest Heavyweight Title Reign in UFC History

When Jon Jones stepped into the heavyweight division, the MMA world watched with anticipation. Already considered by many as the greatest light heavyweight in UFC history, Jones sought new challenges by moving up to heavyweight. He made an emphatic statement in March 2023 at UFC 285 when he defeated Ciryl Gane via first-round guillotine choke to claim the vacant heavyweight belt.

His victory not only solidified his status as a dual-division champion but also set him on the path to break historical records. By defeating Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November 2024, Jones defended his title successfully and equaled some of the greatest championship reigns in the sport. However, the ultimate prize for Jones may be within reach if he holds the heavyweight belt until August 2025.

The Historic Goal: Surpassing Cain Velasquez’s Reign

Cain Velasquez, the former UFC heavyweight champion, set the record for the longest title reign in the division at 896 days. Jon Jones is now in pursuit of that milestone. By March 2025, Jones had held the title for 750 days. If he can keep the belt until August 18, 2025, Jones will surpass Velasquez’s record and secure his spot as the longest-reigning heavyweight champion in UFC history.

This potential achievement is not without challenges. The heavyweight division is stacked with talented fighters, and Jones may have to fend off contenders hungry to dethrone him. Yet, his track record, experience, and fight IQ make him a formidable force capable of achieving this monumental feat.

Tom Aspinall: Rising Star and Interim Title Dominator

While Jon Jones is making history at the top of the heavyweight ladder, Tom Aspinall has emerged as a rising star, quickly making his mark on the division. Aspinall captured the interim heavyweight title in November 2023 at UFC 295 after delivering a stunning first-round knockout victory over Sergei Pavlovich. His dominant performance showcased his speed, agility, and striking power—rare attributes in a division known for its towering, slower-paced fighters.

Aspinall continued his impressive run by defending the interim belt against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304 in July 2024, finishing the fight with another lightning-fast knockout in under a minute. This victory not only demonstrated his elite skill set but also positioned him as a serious contender to unify the heavyweight titles.

Chasing the Longest Interim Title Reign

Interim belts often carry less prestige than undisputed titles, but they serve as placeholders when champions are inactive due to injuries, contract disputes, or other factors. Despite this, interim champions can still make history by defending their belts multiple times and holding the title for extended periods.

As of March 2025, Aspinall had held the interim heavyweight title for 494 days. If he retains the belt until April 29, 2025, he will surpass Renan Barao’s record of 534 days and become the longest-reigning interim champion in UFC history.

A Potential Showdown: Unifying the Heavyweight Titles

With both Jones and Aspinall on the cusp of making history, speculation has swirled about a potential unification fight between the two champions. Such a bout would be one of the most anticipated matchups in UFC history, pitting the established legend against the rising star.

Fan Demand and UFC President Dana White’s Perspective

Fans have been clamoring for a showdown between Jones and Aspinall, and UFC President Dana White has hinted that the organization is interested in making the fight happen. However, negotiations can be complicated, particularly given Jones’ history of contract disputes and his cautious approach to selecting opponents.

Despite these potential hurdles, the allure of a unification fight is undeniable. It would settle the debate over who truly deserves to be called the best heavyweight fighter in the world and could result in either Jones further cementing his GOAT status or Aspinall establishing himself as the new king of the division.

Keys to Victory: How Jones and Aspinall Match Up

If the unification bout takes place, how might the two champions match up? Let’s break down their key strengths and potential strategies:

Jon Jones’ Strengths

• Fight IQ and Experience: Jones is known for his unparalleled fight IQ and ability to adapt his game plan mid-fight. His experience in championship bouts gives him a psychological edge.

• Wrestling and Clinch Game: Jones’ wrestling is a key weapon, and his dominance in the clinch has neutralized many of his opponents.

• Striking Versatility: Jones employs a wide range of strikes, including oblique kicks, spinning elbows, and devastating ground-and-pound.

Tom Aspinall’s Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Aspinall’s speed and footwork are exceptional for a heavyweight. He can close the distance quickly and evade counters.

• Knockout Power: Aspinall’s striking is powerful and precise, making him a threat to finish fights early.

• Submission Skills: A skilled grappler, Aspinall has demonstrated his ability to secure submissions when the fight goes to the ground.

What’s at Stake for Both Fighters

A unification fight between Jones and Aspinall would carry immense stakes for both fighters:

• For Jon Jones: A victory would likely solidify his status as the greatest fighter in UFC history, with records in two divisions and a legacy that may never be matched. It could also serve as a fitting capstone to a legendary career, allowing him to retire at the pinnacle of the sport.

• For Tom Aspinall: A win over Jones would elevate Aspinall to superstar status and position him as the future face of the heavyweight division. It would also validate his interim title reign and establish him as the undisputed champion.

Challenges and Potential Roadblocks

While the prospect of a Jones vs. Aspinall unification fight is exciting, there are potential roadblocks that could prevent it from happening:

• Injuries: The heavyweight division has been plagued by injuries, and both fighters must remain healthy for the fight to take place.

• Contract Negotiations: Jones has had contentious contract negotiations with the UFC in the past, and securing his participation may require careful negotiation.

• Timing: If either fighter loses their next bout or faces unexpected delays, the timing of a unification fight could be disrupted.

Conclusion: A Fight for the Ages

As Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall approach historic milestones in the UFC heavyweight division, the potential for a unification bout looms large. Whether it happens in 2025 or later, the fight promises to be a clash of titans that could redefine the heavyweight landscape and leave an indelible mark on the sport.

For now, fans can only hope that the stars align and that these two champions meet in the Octagon to determine, once and for all, who reigns supreme in the heavyweight division.