The blatant refusal to unify the heavyweight gold on the part of Jon Jones has been met with terms like “paper champion” for the UFC kingpin. The consensus MMA GOAT has been the focal point of ridicule among the MMA community for some time now. Since securing the interim title last year, Tom Aspinall has periodically called out Jones, as it is customary for interim champions to challenge the reigning titleholder.

However, Jones has remained unfazed, choosing to focus instead on his upcoming title defense against former two-time champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, rumored to be his swansong in mixed martial arts. Despite being sidelined for now, the Brit hasn’t held back on social media, frequently accusing Jones of “ducking” him and suggesting that Jones is avoiding the fight out of fear. Recently, Jones’s longtime rival and analyst Daniel Cormier stepped forward to reveal the real reason behind Jones’s decision to avoid a fight with Aspinall.

Daniel Cormier’s theory on Jon Jones avoiding Tom Aspinall

With a record of 27-1-0, Jon Jones has established himself as the most dominant force in his decade-long UFC career, often regarded by analysts and fans as one of the greatest fighters to ever step into the octagon. His official record and estimated net worth of around $3 million (according to CelebrityNetWorth.com), along with his recent purchase of a luxury mansion for his family, speak to a legacy few can question. In the twilight of his career, Jones is reportedly seeking only high-stakes, high-reward fights.

“Jon Jones isn’t afraid of Tom Aspinall,” Daniel Cormier stated in a recent YouTube video, where he broke down the situation. “I wish people would stop saying that—he’s not afraid of that guy. He’s not afraid of anyone, and he’s certainly not afraid to fight him. He’s not. I think he’s trying to be more strategic. I think he’s trying to ensure his legacy stands.”

Cormier further supported Jones’s recent statements on The Kevin Iole Show, where Jones suggested that if he doesn’t retire after fighting Stipe Miocic, he would prefer a matchup with UFC light heavyweight star Alex Pereira over Aspinall. Cormier described it as a more appealing idea, saying, “Unless you don’t play the sport by the rules everyone else does.” According to Jones, Pereira offers a unique challenge and would be both financially and legacy-worthy, adding greater value than a fight with Aspinall.

However, like any situation, there are multiple viewpoints. DC also has his own theory about why Jones is pushing for a fight with Alex Pereira. Could there be more to Jones’s strategy than meets the eye?

DC explains why Jones prefers Alex Pereira

In just three years of his brief MMA career under the UFC banner, Alex Pereira has emerged as a fan favorite and a darling of Dana White. This year, Pereira showcased his value by stepping in on short notice for high-profile fights, helping to elevate his status in the UFC. His appearances on key fight cards have made him a new face of the promotion, with fighters now eager to secure a lucrative matchup with him.

When it comes to Jon Jones, a fight with Pereira might be less difficult due to Pereira’s lack of a grappling background. A lifelong kickboxer, Pereira’s wrestling skills remain largely untested against top-level wrestlers or grapplers. This has been a point of discussion among fight pundits and fans, who speculate that Pereira’s takedown defense is not on par with that of a seasoned wrestler like Jones.

Daniel Cormier recently explained why Jones would prefer a fight with Pereira, stating, “I don’t know if Alex Pereira can defend takedowns against the best guys. He’s wrestling with Glover; I’m sure Glover’s teaching him how to defend takedowns. I’m sure Glover, who’s a tremendous wrestler himself, has him prepared, but I don’t know how he will do in live action against a truly elite-level wrestler. So yeah, Jon would prefer that matchup because it’s much less risky than fighting Tom Aspinall.”