Tom Aspinall is scheduled to meet with UFC management this week to discuss his next opponent, which is expected to be Jon Jones.
Discussions about a significant heavyweight title unification fight between the interim champion and the undisputed titleholder started late last year.
Aspinall recently indicated that the fight is much closer to happening, stating that Jones` side is “done,” referring to Jones` demand for a substantial payment for the fight.
The fighter from Wigan is set to meet with UFC leaders this week to plan his next steps.
Aspinall, 31, mentioned, “We have a meeting next week, and things are looking very positive.”
He also jokingly added, “Jon Jones is an absolute d**k.”
Sources suggest that UFC management hopes to organize the Jones vs Aspinall fight before autumn.
UFC 317, scheduled for June 28 in Las Vegas, is reportedly being considered by Dana White and other UFC executives.
White recently shared the promotion`s timeline for this highly anticipated unification match.
During an interview on The Jim Rome Show, White stated, “The plan is for Aspinall to fight Jon this summer.”
He added, “Of course, the details like when and where are still being worked out. My goal for this year is to make the fight with Aspinall happen.”
However, it has been reported that Jones desires at least six months to prepare for the fight.
MMA reporter Ariel Helwani mentioned earlier in March, “Well, time is running out for a summer fight between Jones and Aspinall.”
“I was informed that Jon wants six months to prepare once the fight is confirmed.”
“Six months from now would be September?”
“While money is a strong motivator, it seems like the possibility of a summer fight is starting to fade.”
Jon Jones, a former top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, last competed in November at UFC 309, defending his undisputed title with a TKO victory in the third round against former champion Stipe Miocic.
Aspinall`s last fight was in July at UFC 304 in Manchester, where he quickly defeated Curtis Blaydes in 60 seconds, avenging his loss to the American from July 2022.