Tom Aspinall, the UFC interim heavyweight champion, has shared his reasoning for placing Jon Jones second on his list of the greatest UFC fighters of all time.
Speaking in a recent interview with the Kairouz Bros, Aspinall explained that Georges St-Pierre (GSP) tops his GOAT list due to his clean record, unlike Jones, who has faced multiple suspensions for performance-enhancing drug (PED) violations.
“GSP,” Aspinall said when asked about his GOAT pick. “He’s never failed for PEDs. [Jon Jones is] second. I think it would be silly to say that he wasn’t one of the best ever.”
Aspinall’s Take on Jones’ Legacy
Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished fighters in UFC history, has faced PED-related controversies throughout his career. Before UFC 200, Jones tested positive for banned substances, resulting in a one-year suspension.
A later suspension in 2017 followed a positive test for anabolic steroids after his second win over Daniel Cormier, which was overturned to a no-contest. In 2018, he tested positive again for trace amounts of steroids but was cleared to compete as the amounts were deemed too small to provide a competitive advantage.
Despite these setbacks, Jones’ record remains legendary. The former light heavyweight champion transitioned to heavyweight in 2023, capturing the title and successfully defending it against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309.
Aspinall acknowledged Jones’ greatness but emphasized the importance of a clean record in the GOAT debate. “It’s about more than skill or achievements. It’s about how you carry yourself and what you represent in the sport,” Aspinall suggested.
Georges St-Pierre (The Clean Record Champion)
St-Pierre, the former UFC welterweight and middleweight champion, is celebrated for his impeccable career, both inside and outside the Octagon. Unlike Jones, St-Pierre has never been linked to PED use, despite allegations from some opponents.
His career included dominant title defenses at welterweight and a triumphant comeback to claim the middleweight title at UFC 217.
“GSP is the complete package,” Aspinall said. “He achieved everything without controversy and remained an ambassador for the sport.”
Building Rivalry Between Aspinall and Jones
Aspinall’s comments come amid growing tension between the two fighters. With Jon Jones coming off his win over Miocic, fans and analysts are clamoring for a matchup between the reigning champion and the interim titleholder.
Negotiations for a potential fight are reportedly underway, with Aspinall eager to prove himself in the Octagon.
“We’re in negotiations right now,” Aspinall said on his YouTube channel. “I’ll be ready to fight whenever they give me the date. Until then, I’m just training and improving.”
Jones, meanwhile, has hinted at other options, including a possible fight against Alex Pereira.
Some fans have criticized Jones for downplaying the significance of a clash with Aspinall, but the latter remains confident in his ability to compete with the UFC legend.
Aspinall’s Respect for Jones Despite Criticism
While Aspinall ranked Jones second on his GOAT list, he acknowledged Jones’ impact on the sport.
“It would be silly to say he’s not one of the best ever,” Aspinall admitted. “His achievements are undeniable, but I think the PED issues take him out of the top spot.”
