Jon Jones has grown used to being the focus of attention. Whether he’s in the octagon, on social media, or simply making a public appearance, the UFC heavyweight champion understands how to attract attention. However, even the most experienced fighters might find themselves in an uncomfortable situation, just how ‘Bones’ discovered when he showed up at Dirty Boxing. The evening was going as planned—big names, great atmosphere—until the audience suddenly focused on Tom Aspinall. A chant broke out, loud and aggressive: “F— Tom Aspinall.” It should have been a moment for Jones to rejoice. But instead of playing along, he hesitated. The reaction wasn’t the confident, calm demeanor that fans anticipate from the reigning heavyweight champion. Instead, something about the scene felt odd, and even Tom Aspinall has spoken out about it.

The interim heavyweight champion caught wind of it later and had a clear takeaway: Jon Jones appeared uncomfortable. It wasn’t about the chant; such incidents occur on a regular basis. However, there was something off about Jones’ body language and reaction. ‘Bones’ appeared awkward and out of place, as if he didn’t know how to react. Aspinall didn’t take it personally; instead, he appeared amused. Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, the Briton gave a fairly honest view of the situation: “Jon looked uncomfortable; he looks a bit awkward… Everyone’s an a—–e sometimes, especially me, so I don’t take offense to it, but yeah, he did look a bit uncomfortable to me. He looks a bit awkward.”

It’s an intriguing twist in a rivalry that has previously been fueled by one-sided frustration. Since winning the interim heavyweight title at UFC 295, Tom Aspinall has been chasing a bout with Jones, but for months, the heavyweight champion has been uninterested. Although Dana White recently announced that the fight was on, ‘Bones’ looks to be dragging his feet. In reaction, the Briton has embraced the “ducking” narrative, even holding up a flashing rubber duck at UFC London when the cameras cut to him, driving the audience into a frenzy. The supporters are fully behind Aspinall, and such instances just stoke the fire.

Jon Jones may not be rushing to sign the contract, but the pressure is building. UFC 317 during International Fight Week was reported to be the target date, but with each passing week, it becomes evident that ‘Bones’ isn’t eager to face the interim champion. The longer this goes on, the louder Tom Aspinall’s supporters become—and even neutral observers are starting to wonder why Jones, arguably the greatest of all time for many fans, is taking his time locking in this fight. The more awkward situations like Dirty Boxing build up, the more it reinforces the notion that Jones is unwilling to take on his most difficult challenge yet. However, UFC fighter Robert Whittaker has given another theory as to why Jon Jones might be delaying the fight against Tom Aspinall.

Robert Whittaker claims Jon Jones is simply trolling Tom Aspinall

The anticipation for Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall has reached almost comical levels. Dana White has guaranteed fans that the bout will take place, but the details are frustratingly vague. Meanwhile, ‘Bones’ continues to impose additional conditions—first, he demanded “f— you money,” and now it’s a six-month training period before entering the cage. Each challenge raises questions about whether ‘Bones’ actually intends to fight. Some see it as hesitation. Others, including Robert Whittaker, believe the heavyweight champion is simply playing games.

Whittaker, speaking on the MMA Arcade podcast, Whittaker provided a more cynical perspective on the situation. According to the former middleweight champ, ‘Bones’ appears to be teasing the Briton by dangling the fight in front of him, having him wait, and then maybe walking away entirely. “I can see him signing it, doing five months, and then just retiring,” Whittaker speculated. It’s a frustrating possibility, but not completely out of character. The heavyweight champion is notorious for playing the long game, taking advantage of events both inside and outside the cage. And if he retires before meeting Tom Aspinall, the interim champion—and the entire heavyweight division—will be left in limbo.

Some believe Jones’ hesitation stems from something more than mind games. There’s a growing belief that he’s waiting to break Cain Velasquez‘s record for the longest-reigning UFC heavyweight champion. If he can keep the belt for a few more months without fighting, he will cement his place in UFC history. Meanwhile, Aspinall is left waiting, having held an interim belt longer than some undisputed champions. Whether the American fighter is trolling, seeking records, or simply biding his time, one thing is certain: the longer this goes on, the more it becomes a struggle both outside and inside the cage. What do you think? Why is Jon Jones delaying the fight? Let us know in the comments.