In a recent YouTube video, former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping expressed his disappointment with Jon Jones' reluctance to unify the UFC's heavyweight titles. Bisping argued that as the undisputed heavyweight champion, Jones has an obligation to face the interim champion, Tom Aspinall, to determine the true heavyweight king.

Unifying the Heavyweight Throne: A Matter of Respect and Legacy

The Undisputed Champion's Duty

Bisping's stance is clear: when a fighter becomes the undisputed champion, they have a responsibility to face the interim titleholder and unify the division. This is not just a matter of protocol, but a testament to the champion's true dominance and the integrity of the sport. Bisping pointed to the recent example of Oleksandr Usyk, who quickly unified the heavyweight titles after defeating Tyson Fury, as the standard Jones should follow.However, Jones' recent comments suggest he is more interested in a "legacy fight" against Alex Pereira, the current light heavyweight champion, rather than facing Aspinall. Bisping sees this as a blatant disregard for the established order and a disservice to the sport. "If he refuses to fight Tom Aspinall next, then we gotta start having a serious conversation as to whether or not this man should be stripped," Bisping asserted, emphasizing the gravity of Jones' potential actions.

The Interim Champion's Claim

Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion, has been patiently waiting for his opportunity to unify the titles. The Englishman, like Bisping, hails from the United Kingdom, adding a layer of national pride to the potential matchup. Aspinall has proven his worth, winning the interim title in November 2023 and defending it once in July 2024. His impressive run has earned him the right to face the undisputed champion, and Bisping believes Jones has an obligation to make that fight happen.Bisping's argument is that Jones, having been sidelined for over a year due to injury, cannot simply bypass the interim champion and cherry-pick his next opponent. "The reality is Jon Jones is now the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world," Bisping stated. "And when he fights Stipe Miocic, if he is victorious, then he has to face Tom Aspinall next. This is just the way the world works, okay?"

The Legacy Fight Dilemma

While Bisping acknowledges the allure of a Jones vs. Pereira matchup, he believes that the unification bout against Aspinall should take precedence. "Alex Pereira is incredible," Bisping said. "I'm a huge fan. Take my money right now. I would love to see them fight." However, he firmly stated that this can only happen "if Jon Jones can get through Tom Aspinall — simple as that."The former middleweight champion's stance is rooted in the principles of fairness and respect for the sport's hierarchy. He argues that if this were a boxing scenario, Jones would be stripped of his title for refusing to face the interim champion. Bisping's unwavering position highlights the importance of upholding the integrity of the UFC's heavyweight division and the need for champions to fulfill their obligations to the sport and its fans.