Renowned grappling specialist Craig Jones has agreed to join Tom Aspinall’s camp, specifically to help the interim UFC heavyweight champion prepare for a potential showdown with Jon Jones.
The collaboration was revealed in a social media exchange that quickly went viral. When a fan suggested bringing Craig Jones into Aspinall’s camp “to stick it to Gordon” – likely referencing Gordon Ryan, another elite grappler who has connections with Jon Jones – Craig enthusiastically responded that they should “take out that flamboyant man.” The exchange concluded with Craig’s confident declaration: “3 for 3 this year.”
This partnership could prove significant for Aspinall, who has been in a frustrating holding pattern as the UFC’s longest-reigning interim heavyweight champion. Since capturing the interim title in November 2023 with a first-round knockout of Sergei Pavlovich, Aspinall has been unable to secure a unification bout against undisputed champion Jon Jones.
“Yeah, it’s a lot of bulls*** in it,” Aspinall recently stated about his unwanted record as the longest-reigning interim champion. “That is not something that I wanted.”
Jones, widely considered one of the greatest fighters in UFC history, has focused on a matchup with former champion Stipe Miocic rather than facing Aspinall. This strategic decision has left the British knockout artist in limbo despite his impressive performances.
Craig Jones brings world-class submission expertise to Aspinall’s already formidable skill set. The Australian grappler is known for his innovative Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques and has competed successfully against many elite grapplers, including Gordon Ryan. His experience could be crucial in preparing for Jones, whose grappling and wrestling abilities have troubled many opponents throughout his decorated career.
For Aspinall, this alliance represents more than just technical preparation – it’s a statement of intent. By bringing in one of the world’s premier submission specialists, the interim champion is signaling his determination to force a unification bout and end his tenure as the placeholder champion.
While the UFC has not officially announced when – or if – an Aspinall-Jones matchup will materialize, this coaching addition suggests that the British heavyweight is preparing as though the fight is inevitable.
