The UFC heavyweight unification bout between reigning champion Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall is already being touted as the biggest fight in UFC history. Confirmed for 2025 by UFC CEO Dana White, the fight promises to be a blockbuster event that could redefine the heavyweight division. However, behind the scenes, there’s a significant hurdle: contract negotiations with Jon Jones.

The Money Talks: Jon Jones’ Demands

Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, is expected to demand a massive payday for the highly anticipated clash. Reports indicate that Jones is seeking what he calls “that ‘(expletive)-you money’,” ensuring he is “well compensated” for the event.

Professional boxer and influencer Jake Paul has weighed in on the matter, proposing a lucrative deal for Jones:

“Bones should be getting a $50M guarantee for that fight. And $10 for every PPV buy above 600K. If they offer that to Jon, it’s fair. He should take it.”

Paul’s suggested $50 million guarantee far exceeds the $20-$25 million range speculated by UFC analyst Jon Anik, who still believes such a figure would make Jones the second-highest earner in UFC history for a single fight. Currently, Conor McGregor holds the top spot, with career earnings of $39.3 million.

While Jones has not publicly disclosed his financial demands, his camp is undoubtedly aware of the monumental stakes of this fight, both in terms of legacy and financial compensation.

The Rise of Tom Aspinall

On the other side of the octagon is Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion and a rising star in the division. Aspinall’s dominance over elite fighters like Sergei Pavlovich and Curtis Blaydes has positioned him as the future of the heavyweight division.

The UFC has reportedly been keen to establish Aspinall as the division’s new face, and a victory over Jones would undoubtedly achieve that. However, defeating the legendary Jones is easier said than done.

Dana White’s Vision: “The Biggest Fight in UFC History”

Dana White has left no doubt about the significance of this matchup, calling it a historic moment for the sport:

“I think it’s probably the biggest fight in heavyweight history, and it’s massive in the history of the company, too. It’s a big fight.”

With the fight already confirmed for 2025, White has assured fans that the UFC will do everything possible to make it happen, even if it means navigating complex contract negotiations with Jones.

The Stakes Are Monumental

This fight is more than just a unification bout—it’s a clash of eras. Jones, a living legend with an unmatched resume, is defending his legacy as the most dominant fighter in UFC history. Aspinall, on the other hand, represents the new generation of heavyweights, blending speed, skill, and power in a way that has captivated fans worldwide.

For Jones, this fight could be the crowning jewel of his illustrious career. For Aspinall, it’s an opportunity to dethrone a legend and solidify himself as the division’s future.

Jake Paul’s Prediction and the UFC’s Intentions

Jake Paul’s commentary about the UFC potentially favoring Aspinall to “create the next man” adds an interesting layer to the narrative. While Jones remains the sport’s biggest draw, the UFC is undoubtedly eyeing Aspinall as a marketable champion for years to come.

“100 percent [it’s a priority],” White said about making the fight happen in 2025.

What’s Next?

As contract negotiations with Jon Jones unfold, fans can only hope that both sides come to an agreement. With White guaranteeing that the fight will “100 percent” happen, the focus shifts to the stakes, the narratives, and the spectacle of what could be a record-breaking pay-per-view event.

Whether Jones walks away with the victory or Aspinall ushers in a new era, one thing is certain: this fight will go down in history as a defining moment for the UFC and the sport of mixed martial arts.

Let the countdown to 2025 begin.