Tom Aspinall recently rejected the idea of fighting Jon Jones at the UFC’s historic White House event in 2026. Though the two heavyweights were once linked, those plans dissolved after Jones’ retirement announcement.
Jones later had a change of heart and expressed interest in challenging whoever is heavyweight champion at the White House. UFC President Dana White confirmed that the event is in the preliminary stages and will likely air on CBS. Still, it’s still too early to determine who will compete on and headline the card.
Jones teased a return for Jul. 4, 2026, but it appears as though Aspinall has moved forward with his career. After being promoted to undisputed heavyweight champion, he will defend his title against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321.
During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Aspinall made it clear that Jones is not on his radar. The Englishman didn’t hold back and insinuated that fans shouldn’t put much faith in ‘Bones’ being sincere about returning.
“It’s boring as hell, don’t want to talk about [Jones possibly returning]. I’ve already got a fight, so I’m focused on that. I micro-manage things so well mentally. For the next 10 weeks of my life, all I’m thinking of is Ciryl Gane and how to beat him,” Aspinall said. “It has spent zero seconds in my mind. I’m not interested, mate, and the world shouldn’t either, because what’s the point? It’s false hope.”
Tom Aspinall Not Campaigning to Fight at the White House
Aspinall also discussed the White House event itself. Despite the hype, he is not campaigning for a spot on the card or an opponent.
After both White and President Donald Trump confirmed plans for the historic card, several UFC stars expressed interest. Despite the significance of competing at the White House, Aspinall believes it should be reserved for American fighters.
Speaking with Ariel Helwani, Aspinall clarified that his stance has nothing to do with his views on President Trump. Instead, his emphasized that his British origin doesn’t make him a logical choice to headline on America’s 250th anniversary.
“It would be a cool experience, but I feel like the Americans should get the shot at the White House,” Aspinall said. “I’m not against [Trump]. I don’t know anything about American politics, I’m not American., I don’t reside there, I don’t do anything there apart from pay taxes and fight there. So all of that stuff just is irrelevant to me.”
Dana White Hesitant to Book Aspinall vs. Jones at the White House
White also addressed the possibility of booking Aspinall vs. Jones for the White House card. While intrigued by the matchup, the UFC CEO appeared to share a similar stance as the reigning heavyweight champion.
Although previously expressing interest in booking Aspinall vs. Jones, White was skeptical about the risks relying on the former two-division champion. Those concerns resurfaced during his UFC 318 post-event press conference.
White explained why booking ‘Bones’ might not be a wise decision.
“You know how I feel about [Jones],” White said. “I can’t risk putting him in big positions in a big spot and have something go wrong, especially the White House card.”
Tom Aspinall Shuts Down Potential Jon Jones Clash at White House